The Abia State Government has announced a major Urban Renewal and Beautification initiative, aimed at transforming Umuahia, the state’s capital, into a Smart City as part of its ongoing infrastructure development efforts.
Prince Okey Kanu, the State Commissioner for Information, revealed these plans during a media briefing on the outcome of this week’s Executive Council (Exco) meeting, which was presided over by Governor Alex Otti. Among the key projects highlighted is the construction and expansion of the 1.385-kilometer Bank Road, where the road’s width will be increased from 5.5 meters to 8 meters, including the development of a dual carriageway and enhanced drainage systems.
Prince Kanu explained that the initiative includes the construction of bus shelters throughout Umuahia, with civil works already underway for about 10 proposed shelters along the Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard.
“Part of this initiative also includes the construction of bus shelters within Umuahia. Civil works are ongoing at about 10 proposed shelters along Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard,” Kanu stated.
“As part of the plan to ease congestion in Umuahia, the government is relocating the Isigate market to a newly acquired site at Okwulaga Afara. Compensation has already been paid to landowners, and perimeter fencing is currently under construction. This move is part of a broader effort to develop a bus terminal and enhance the beautification of the state capital.”
“The State Government is in the process of relocating the Isigate market to Afara. The goal is to decongest the State Capital. At the Afara market site, land allocation has been completed, compensation paid to landowners, and perimeter fencing is underway. “This relocation will make way for the new bus terminal and other transport and beautification projects around the area.” Kanu said.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the Smart City project, Kanu further announced the approval of standardized building projections of 1.5 meters across the state. This new urban planning guideline will allow landlords to extend their buildings by 1.5 meters, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the city.
“Government has standardized building projections across the state. Going forward, landlords will be allowed to project their buildings by about 1.5 meters. This will be consistent across Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia,” Kanu added.
Also speaking, the General Manager of Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), Mr. Kingsley Agomoh, disclosed plans for the relocation of illegal traders from Isigate to the new relief market site at Umunze-Okwulaga Afara.
He mentioned that perimeter fencing is progressing, and once complete, the relocation of traders will commence. He also highlighted the forthcoming renovation of the bus terminal at the Enugu/Port Harcourt Expressway in Umuahia, which will serve as a designated park for heavy-duty trucks.
Contributing, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, informed the press that all illegal motor parks at Isigate would soon be removed and also reiterated that the ban on one-way driving remains strictly enforced, with no exceptions.
