By Progress Godfrey

ABUJA – Ama Davids Nigeria Limited has unveiled the Abuja Trade Centre, a proposed 100-hectare commercial hub in Kuje, saying the project is designed to boost commerce, attract investment and strengthen business activities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Speaking at an investors’ and stakeholders’ forum in Abuja on Wednesday, the Managing Director of the real estate company, Mr Ibrahim Arasah, said the project would combine several markets and commercial facilities in one location to address the shortage of organised trading spaces.

He said the development would integrate commodity markets into a modern trade ecosystem, while the groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for July 28 and is expected to attract government officials, investors, financial institutions, cooperative societies, real estate developers and traditional rulers.

Arasah said, “The initiative was conceived to address the shortage of organised commercial spaces and integrate commodity markets from across country borders into one modern trade ecosystem hub that will redefine trade and business in Africa.”

He added that the first phase of the project is expected to be completed within 24 months and would include a hotel, general market, building materials market, solid minerals market, fashion and furniture markets, as well as a central motor park. He also called on government, investors and development partners to support the project.

Speaking, the Project Development Lead, Engr. Gim Oni, described the Abuja Trade Centre as an integrated commercial ecosystem that would improve supply chains, lower business costs and create jobs through a mix of wholesale, retail and high-end markets.

He said Kuje was chosen because of its strategic location and road links to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Nasarawa State and Gwagwalada, adding that the site has strong long-term development potential.

“This project would reduce the cost of doing business. This is because Kuje is a strategic location. It is routed to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Nasarawa State, Gwagwalada and takes just about 35 minutes to get there from the city centre,” he said.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Dynaprojekt Limited and Stride Leadership Foundation, Dr Arc Polycarp Gbaja, said integrating commercial activities into major infrastructure projects was key to their long-term sustainability.

He said the proposed trade centre could become a major regional hub for trade, investment and tourism by taking advantage of Kuje’s strategic location and planned transport infrastructure.