Abia Targets US, International Investors Through AFRICANDO 2026
The Abia State Government is set to court American and other international investors through the 2026 African Diaspora Conference and Expo, AFRICANDO, scheduled to hold in the state this month.
The conference is expected to bring together investors, business leaders, policymakers, development partners, diplomats and entrepreneurs to explore investment opportunities and strengthen commercial ties between Africa and the United States.
The Chief of Staff to Governor Alex Otti, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, disclosed the plans in a statement issued to journalists on Sunday.
Ajagba said the state government was working with the conference organisers to ensure the event produces concrete business agreements and investment partnerships rather than ending with speeches and networking.
The 2026 edition, themed “Deepening U.S.–Africa Commercial Ties in the Era of AfCFTA,” will showcase investment opportunities in Abia and other African markets while connecting businesses with American capital, technology, expertise and international distribution networks.
Ajagba said the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers African businesses opportunities to expand into new markets, while international partnerships could improve their production capacity and competitiveness.
He described Abia as well-positioned to benefit from such partnerships, citing its manufacturing and entrepreneurial base, particularly in Aba, which is known for its indigenous manufacturing, commerce and craftsmanship.
He added that the Otti administration was investing in infrastructure, strengthening public institutions and improving the business environment to attract private investment.
He described AFRICANDO 2026 as an international economic platform hosted in Abia, rather than an event limited to the state.
The conference is expected to focus on sectors including agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing, consumer goods, energy, financial services, healthcare, transportation and logistics, science and technology, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.
A key feature will be a structured Deal Room and Investment Marketplace, where investment-ready projects from Abia and participating businesses will be presented to prospective investors.
By Oluwafemi Shodipe.
