A decade ago, “made in Aba” used to be a punchline. People associated the phrase with cheap knock-offs and low-quality craftsmanship. But according to former President Goodluck Jonathan, those days are over.
Speaking at a trade and innovation summit in Abia State, Jonathan praised the rise in quality and reputation of Aba-made products.
“Aba products are no longer a laughing stock,” he said. “They are now competing globally. Our people are showing the world what Nigerian ingenuity looks like.”
And he’s not wrong.
Over the past few years, entrepreneurs and artisans in Aba have stepped up their game — investing in better materials, using smarter branding, and leveraging social media to reach wider audiences. Today, you’ll find Aba shoes, bags, and fabrics not just in Lagos markets, but in stores in Ghana, the UK, and even the US.
The shift didn’t happen overnight. It took hustle, resilience, and a conscious effort to change perception. Jonathan’s recognition is just the latest sign that the hard work is paying off.
On social media, Aba business owners shared clips of the speech with pride. “From the streets to the world,” one user wrote. “We’re not done yet.”
Maybe Aba isn’t just the heart of local industry anymore — maybe it’s the face of Nigerian excellence.
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