Otti plans Abia railway, ramps up other projects
The Abia State Government says it is pushing forward with plans for a modern railway system in Umuahia as part of broader efforts to transform transportation, urban renewal, and housing infrastructure across the state. The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti. Kanu said discussions between the state government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation have reached an advanced stage for the development of a new train station in Umuahia. He explained that the proposed rail facility will be located near the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal and designed as a modern transport hub 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 supporting access roads will also be constructed to improve connectivity within the area. On urban renewal, Kanu said the government has concluded arrangements to relocate traders from Isi Gate to the Relief Market in Afara, with compensation already paid to affected landowners and construction works ongoing. He also noted that commercial vehicle operations will be moved from Okigwe Park to the new bus terminal once it is completed. According to him, the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal is nearing completion and will soon be commissioned alongside components of the Abia Green Shuttle Bus Scheme. He said the project includes charging stations, ticketing points, road junction improvements, and bus shelters across the city. “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 said. Kanu further disclosed that several infrastructure projects in Ohafia, including roads and a new daily market, are also ready for commissioning. He added that groundwork for a Federal Housing Authority estate in Umuahia will begin on April 21, 2026, as a joint initiative between the state government and the Federal Ministry of Housing. The state government also clarified that it played a significant role in the housing project, stressing that it is a collaborative effort rather than a purely federal initiative.
Arun
Apr 21, 2026
