The Abia Government has announced a series of urban renewal and infrastructure development projects aimed at transforming Umuahia into a modern smart city.
The Commissioner for Information, Mr Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday during a briefing with newsmen on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting in Umuahia.
Kanu outlined key initiatives, including road expansion, market relocation, housing, and public safety.
He explained that as part of the government’s efforts to enhance the state capital, the expansion of Library Avenue, commonly known as Bank Road, had begun.
“The 1.385-kilometer stretch will be widened from 5.5 meters to 8 meters to create a dual-lane road with improved drainage systems.
“Upon completion, the project will provide a clearer and more accessible route to the Government House from Okpara Avenue and the Federal Medical Centre (FMC).”
Kanu also announced the construction of ten bus shelters along the Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard to modernise public transportation in Umuahia.
“Additionally, the government plans to address congestion in the city centre by relocating the Isigate Market to Afara.
“The new market site has already been acquired, with compensation provided to landowners, and a perimeter fence is being constructed to pave the way for structured commercial activities.”
The commissioner stated that 28 major road projects were currently ongoing across the state, with contractors working to meet set deadlines.
He also mentioned 35 direct labour projects, including work on Okigwe Road and Obowu Road in Umuahia, as well as Tenant Road and School Road in Aba.
He said under the “Zero Pothole Initiative,” key roads such as Aba-Owerri Road, George’s Street, and Eziukwu Road have undergone repairs to improve vehicular movement.
On housing development, Kanu said four projects would be executed in Valley View, Mbaisii, Mgbarakuma (Umuahia), and Obehe (Ukwa West Local Government Area).
He further announced plans for the “New Umuahia” project, a 2,000-hectare smart city development between Umuahia Tower and Ntigha, covering 19 communities.
Kanu also addressed the issue of fake drugs, describing them as a threat to public health and safety.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to clamping down on the production and sale of fake drugs and beverages in the state, with security agencies mobilised to enforce compliance and severe penalties for offenders.
Regarding traffic regulation, Kanu warned that motorists caught driving against traffic would be prosecuted under existing laws.
He urged residents to support the government’s initiatives, as they would transform Abia into a more organised and economically vibrant state.