The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has expressed its readiness to strengthen the Aba Shoe Industry through its strategic programme aimed at introducing the use of technological advancements in shoe manufacturing.
Miss Ahunna Eziakonwa, the Assistant Administrator of UNDP made this known on Monday during a meeting with the wife of Abia Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, on the sidelines of the ongoing 68th Commission on the Status of Women, the UN’s Largest annual gathering on gender equality and women’s empowerment, in New York, United States of America.
Eziakonwa, who is also the Director, Regional Bureau for Africa at the rank of UNDP Assistant Secretary General, said that the initiative would be utilised to build sustainable growth in the Trade and Commerce sector of Abia economy.
She also said that the use of technology in the business of shoe manufacturers would enable the local manufacturers to find viable platforms to market their finished products, therefore giving Made-In-Aba products international recognition.
Eziakonwa further expressed the willingness of the UNDP to support the State Government to achieve its empowerment initiatives.
According to her, Gov. Alex Otti of Abia has proven beyond all reasonable doubt that he is prepared for the job of governing Abia, judging from his numerous achievements since assumption of office.
She said that she was delighted with the developmental strides of the Governor in the state within such a short time in office.
Eziakonwa disclosed that she received very laudable reports about the performance of the Governor during the UNDP meeting held in Rwanda in 2024, adding that the Governor was present during the meeting.
In her speech, Mrs. Otti thanked Eziakonwa for her kind words towards the Governor and government and described the resolve by UNDP to support activities that facilitate the development of Abia as a welcome development.
She said that the Governor had evolved numerous policies and programmes for the development of Abia and had unwavering commitment towards ensuring that they would be promptly executed.
The Abia First Lady was accompanied to the meeting by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Vulnerable Groups and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Ifeoma Thomas and Senior Special Assistant on Women Affairs, Mrs. Chinwe Onyeukwu.
