In a significant step towards economic revitalization, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has welcomed an investment initiative aimed at transforming the long-abandoned Aba Mega Mall into a thriving manufacturing hub. The project, which has remained dormant for a decade, is now set for a revival through a partnership between the state government and Greenfields Assets Limited.
A breakthrough in the mall’s redevelopment emerged following a high-level meeting between Governor Otti and a delegation from Greenfields Assets, led by its Group Chairman, Dr. Paul Obanua.
The Aba Mega Mall, originally inaugurated in May 2015, was left to deteriorate due to neglect by the previous administration. However, Governor Otti has expressed his administration’s willingness to collaborate with investors to breathe new life into the abandoned project and turn it into a key driver of economic growth.
Dr. Obanua, speaking after the meeting, shared his excitement over the renewed engagement with the state government. He recalled the frustration of watching a project, for which he had secured a $10 million loan, remain unused.
“We are very excited that His Excellency, Governor Alex Chioma Otti, has finally given us the platform to discuss this project—something we have been unable to do for the past ten years,” he said.
According to Obanua, a consortium of investors has been assembled to inject over N50 billion into the redevelopment of the mall, converting it into a world-class manufacturing ecosystem and export hub.
“Our vision is to establish a fully integrated manufacturing and standardization hub that will empower Abia’s skilled entrepreneurs, particularly in garment and footwear production,” he explained.
Outlining the transformation plan, Obanua revealed that advanced automated garment cutting and sewing machines would be installed, enhancing the productivity of local manufacturers by over 100 times. The initiative will also include power supply solutions and product standardization, ensuring that locally made garments and shoes meet international certification requirements for export to markets in the United States, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Recognizing a major challenge faced by local artisans—the lack of industrial-grade equipment—Obanua assured that the manufacturing hub would bridge this gap, enabling small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) to scale their production.
Governor Otti commended the investors for their commitment to reviving the project and reiterated his administration’s dedication to fostering a business-friendly environment. He assured Greenfields Assets that their proposal would receive serious consideration, emphasizing his government’s goal of creating wealth and economic opportunities for Abia residents.
To move the project forward, Otti directed further discussions between the state government team and the investors, reinforcing his administration’s vision of positioning Abia as a center for industrial growth and global trade.
Dr. Obanua praised Otti for his proactive and development-oriented leadership, noting that strong political will is essential for driving meaningful change.
“The most important factor in leadership is the willingness to make things work. When leaders show commitment, the people will follow. Without the right political will, even the best projects will fail,” Obanua stated.
With this renewed partnership, Abia State is on the path to unlocking the potential of the long-dormant Aba Mega Mall, setting the stage for increased industrialization and economic prosperity.
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