Soludo Expands Industrial Clusters to Boost MSMEs in Anambra

The Anambra State government is widening its industrial cluster development initiative for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with the construction of a new Tailoring/Garment Cluster in Ogbunike/Nkwelle, Oyi Local Government Area.

During an inspection visit, the Managing Director/CEO of the Anambra Small Business Agency (ASBA), Clement Chukwuka, said the agency is committed to supporting MSMEs and developing strategic industrial hubs through innovative funding approaches.

The garment cluster, which will house about 600 shops, is part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s growing industrialisation plan. Chukwuka noted that ASBA also conceptualized the adjacent Digital Shoe/Leather Market cluster—another key pillar of the state’s drive to create productive centres that stimulate economic expansion.

He explained that the new project will bring together over 500 dispersed tailoring and textile businesses currently spread across multiple markets.

“This will be a one-stop hub for textiles, garments, tailoring accessories and everything related to clothing. Mr Governor supports made-in-Anambra products, and everything that comes from this market will proudly bear that label,” he said.

Chukwuka added that beneficiaries of the 1-Youth-2-Skills programme would gain opportunities within the cluster, helping reduce youth migration by creating profitable ventures locally.

“ASBA funds these enterprises to help them grow, reinvest and contribute meaningfully to the state economy. When clusters thrive, GDP rises and taxes are paid with ease,” he noted.

Chairman of the Tailoring/Garment Market, Mr. Douglas Olemeforo, thanked the Governor, saying traders scattered across five to six streets are eager to move into the new market by February 2026 when commissioning is planned. He also condemned landlord exploitation caused by rising building material costs but praised the state’s decision to allocate land freely for the project.

The Association’s Secretary, Mr. Iziogu Ogbonna Jeremiah, described the site as strategic and easily accessible, adding that the ongoing federal road project in the area would help transform the cluster into a major commercial centre capable of rivaling Onitsha Main Market.

The PRO and site manager, Sir Ejike Chris Uche, said the new cluster would decongest the overcrowded Onitsha Main Market, where tailors currently occupy Williams Street, Francis, Ogalonye, Nottidge, and nearby areas. He added that street-level container offloading often causes traffic gridlock, especially during festive periods. Relocating to Ogbunike/Nkwelle, he said, aligns with the administration’s “Dubai-Taiwan” market reorganization vision.

He commended Governor Soludo for providing the land at no cost and praised the engineers for their dedication to meeting project deadlines.

A respected figure in the tailoring sector, Chief Clement Nwaziama, applauded ASBA and the Governor for their foresight and professionalism, pledging the traders’ full cooperation.

The Supervising Engineer for FACOMORE NIG. LTD, Engr. Anene Ibe, assured that the project is being executed to high standards, noting that between 350 and 400 shops are already completed. He projected that the garment cluster would reach 90–95% completion by February 2026, making it ready for occupation and commissioning.

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