- he revealed that talks between the state government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation were at an advanced stage
- He added that new access roads would also be built to improve movement around the area
- He further disclosed that commercial vehicles currently operating at Okigwe Park would be moved to the new bus terminal
Abia State Government has reiterated its focus on improving transportation, urban development, and housing, with plans for a new railway project in Umuahia forming a central part of its infrastructure agenda.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Benue Mortician Arrested for Using Corpse Part as Walking Stick
- Baba Yusuf: Bandits May Reach National Assembly
- PDP Asks INEC To Withdraw Recognition Of Anyanwu As National Secretary
In a statement issued on Tuesday, he revealed that talks between the state government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation were at an advanced stage for the construction of a modern train station in the state capital.
Kanu explained that the proposed station would be situated close to the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal and designed as an integrated rail hub with commercial and retail facilities.
He added that new access roads would also be built to improve movement around the area.
On urban renewal efforts, the commissioner said arrangements had been finalised to relocate traders from Isi Gate to the Relief Market in Afara.
He noted that compensation had already been paid to affected landowners, while fencing and construction of retaining walls at the new site were ongoing.
He further disclosed that commercial vehicles currently operating at Okigwe Park would be moved to the new bus terminal. Traders, however, will temporarily use the park until the Afara market is fully completed.
Kanu also announced that the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal is nearing completion and will soon be commissioned alongside facilities supporting the Abia Green Shuttle Bus Scheme.
These include charging stations, ticketing points, improved road junctions, and bus shelters across the city.
According to him, the new transport system is expected to position Umuahia among cities with modern and efficient public transit networks.
He added that several projects undertaken by the Greater Ohafia Development Authority, including road works and a new daily market, are ready for inauguration.
The commissioner also revealed that work on a Federal Housing Authority estate in Umuahia is scheduled to begin on April 21, 2026, describing it as a joint effort between the state government and the Federal Ministry of Housing.
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, dismissed claims that the housing project was solely a federal initiative, stressing that the state government played a significant role in bringing it to fruition.
FURTHER READING
