By Ogochukwu Nwaokafor, Awka


In a bid to boost industrialization and economic growth, Anambra State has unveiled the "Made in Anambra Pan African Export Program 2023."

The pre launch for the commencement of "Made in Anambra Export project" was held in Awka, Anambra State on 26th July 2023, with the aim to encourage leading industries in the state to strategically export their products to 54 African countries, taking advantage of the vast market of approximately 1.2 billion people with an estimated value of $3.4 trillion.

The Commissioner for Industry in Anambra State, Hon Christian Udechukwu, announced the pre-launch event, outlining the government's vision for expanding industries internationally and tapping into the African free trade area. He stated, 'The initiative seeks to leverage the knowledge, expertise, and financial capacity of industries in Anambra, following the success of the state's governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, in spearheading a pioneering Pan African bank. 'The government plans to provide support to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through cooperative financing and specialized funding from the state. Additionally, the agricultural sector is receiving a boost with the cultivation of one million palm oil and coconut seedlings, benefiting over 130,000 families'

'Anambra intends to secure a portion of the 240 billion naira allocated by the federal government for palm oil components importation to enhance local production.
The state is also focusing on developing a skilled workforce, especially in the ICT sector, with over 30,000 youths already trained in ICT skills. Anambra aims to attract new industries in animation, artificial intelligence, and the Internet fostering partnerships to support these endeavors.' he said.

Furthermore, 'the government is dedicated to enhancing ease of doing business in the state, introducing smart technologies, and migrating government services online to provide better access and efficiency for citizens.'

The official unveiling of the Made in Anambra Pan African Export Program 2023 is scheduled for October 3-4, 2023, at the International Conference in Africa.

'The state's stakeholders, including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and chambers of commerce, have expressed optimism about the program's potential to bolster economic growth, promote job creation, and position Anambra State as a technology and industrial hub in Africa.
With the governor's ambitious vision and deliberate approach, Anambra State aims to thrive in the dynamic and competitive global market, becoming a major player in Africa's economic landscape'.

In same vain, The Chairman of the Manufacturers Association, Lady Ada Chukwu Dozier, highlighted the significant strides made by the government towards making Anambra State a technology hub and an economically thriving region. She applauded the Governor's commitment to promoting made-in-Anambra products and his role as the "chief marketing officer" for the state.

'One of the notable achievements that drew praise from the manufacturers was the Governor's prompt response to their concerns regarding multiple taxation and harassment from touts. the Governor's intervention demonstrated his good intentions and unwavering support for the business community.' She said.

Furthermore, Lady Ada Dozier 'commended the ongoing collaborations between the government and the business sector. These partnerships aim to fortify and strengthen industries in the state, creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive'.

'Notable among these collaborations is the Memorandum of Understanding with the Energy Development Company (EDC) to enhance power supply and reduce energy costs, which is expected to boost productivity, generate wealth, and create more employment opportunities.'

The Governor's proactive approach to addressing security concerns was also acknowledged in the report. His efforts in securing lives and property in the state have been instrumental in maintaining a stable and conducive environment for businesses to flourish.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria confidently stated that they believe the solution to their business needs and aspirations lies in the Governor's visionary leadership.

They expressed their pride in having a government that is genuinely interested in the welfare and growth of businesses and the economy as a whole.
As the administration continues to push forward with its agenda, the business community remains optimistic about the future of Anambra State. With a focus on industrialization, economic growth, and a commitment to improving the business environment, the state is poised to become a beacon of progress in the region'. she said.

Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu Ojinaka said it's the role of the media to set every plans and activities of the industry forward and futher assured the partnership of the media because we all want the growth of the state.

Additionally the President of Anambra Chambers of Commerce, and CEO of PAXS Pharmacy, Pharm Uche Akpakama, commended the Government of Prof Charles Soludo for such wonderful innovation, which to him, will be the best thing to happen to Anambra when actualized. He stressed that 'Anambra used to be the industrial and commercial hub of the south east, but it's unfortunate that if you walk round the market today, the people are sleeping while some are idling away their time, because of so many constraints, but I thank God that the government of Prof Charles Soludo is adopting this innovation through the ministry of industry to revive manufacturering in the Anambra'

He further stressed that if this lofty idea was implemented that it will revive trade and commerce, but however tasked the Government to see how small and medium scale industries can be empowered to effectively produce what can meet International standard, aside from the export of only raw material which has not added much value to the country.

Good initiative.

From the bottom of my heart, am wishing this state all the best. I just love progressive people and those that aspire for greatness.