…Partners UN- Habitat
The Abia State Government is planning to launch a 25-year master plan for Greater Aba to guide long-term development in the state’s commercial capital. The development plan aims to transform Aba into a modern, resilient, and economically vibrant city.
Briefing newsmen after the State Executive Council meeting the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, said the master plan was developed through a partnership between the Greater Aba Development Authority and UN-Habitat.
Also he said it will address key challenges such as urban planning, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and economic growth. The blueprint is structured around four core pillars such as transportation and infrastructure upgrades to road networks, city connectivity, and transportation systems. Others are Economic Development Expansion and formalization of commercial and industrial zones within Aba, Sustainable Urban Growth and Flood Control .
This is in addition to implementation of flood management systems and terrestrial resilience measures.The Commissioner disclosed that 91,227 residents have enrolled in the Abia State Social Health Insurance Scheme. The scheme, initially targeted at the formal sector, will now be extended to the informal sector following executive council approval.Prince Kanu also announced the commissioning of a fully operational Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Abia State Diagnostic Centre in Umuahia. The facility is expected to improve emergency care and support advanced surgical procedures.On education infrastructure, the Commissioner stated that the first phase of the power restoration project at Abia State University (ABSU) has been completed. Power has been restored to several campus areas.
He confirmed that the second phase will commence once approvals are secured. Renovation of student hostels is ongoing, with electrical and plumbing works completed and the buildings set for handover soon.Addressing security concerns, Kanu acknowledged recent incidents in Umunneochi and assured the public that security agencies have been placed on full alert. The state government has committed to strengthening security across all affected areas.Speaking further, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr. Ikechukwu Monday, noted that the state has initiated the process of transferring regulatory oversight from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to the newly established Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority.
