Otti plans Abia railway, ramps up other projects

The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to modern transportation, urban renewal and housing development, with a proposed railway project in Umuahia forming a key part of its infrastructure drive.

The state Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.

According to the Tuesday statement made available to journalists, signed by Oge Christopher, Assistant Head of Department (Information), Kanu said discussions between the state government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation had reached an advanced stage for the construction of a new train station in Umuahia.

He explained that the facility would be located near the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal and designed as a modern urban rail corridor integrated with commercial and retail activities.

“The proposed train station will be located adjacent to the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal and will feature a modern urban railway corridor integrated with retail and commercial activities,” he said.

He added that a network of access roads would also be developed to improve connectivity within the area.

On urban renewal, Kanu said the Umuahia Capital Development Authority had concluded arrangements to relocate traders from Isi Gate to the Relief Market in Afara.

“All arrangements for the relocation have been concluded,” he said, noting that compensation had been paid to affected landowners, perimeter fencing completed, and construction of retaining walls ongoing.

He added that plans were also in place to move commercial vehicles from Okigwe Park to the new bus terminal, while traders would temporarily occupy the park pending completion of the Afara market.

Kanu disclosed that the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal was nearing completion and ready for commissioning, alongside supporting infrastructure for the Abia Green Shuttle Bus Scheme.

“These include charging stations, ticketing points, junction improvement works, as well as bus shelters strategically located across Umuahia.

“When fully operational, the new central bus terminal and the Green Bus Shuttle Service will position Umuahia among leading cities in Nigeria with modern and efficient public transportation systems,” he stated.

He further revealed that several projects executed by the Greater Ohafia Development Authority were awaiting inauguration, including road projects and a new daily market in Ohafia.

The commissioner also announced that groundwork for a Federal Housing Authority estate in Umuahia would commence on April 21, 2026, describing it as a joint initiative between the state and the Federal Ministry of Housing.

Reacting to claims that the project was solely federal, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, clarified that the state government played a major role.

“The most important thing is the involvement of Abia State… we are not dragging anything with them,” he said, dismissing contrary claims as political.