The Abia State Government has clarified that the proposed Federal Housing Authority estate in Umuahia is a joint project between the state and the Federal Government, dismissing claims that it is solely a federal initiative.
The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, made the clarification after a State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
According to Kanu, the housing project is aimed at expanding access to affordable housing, enhancing urban development, and supporting sustainable community growth in the state.
He also addressed concerns over the siting of the estate on rice farmland, stating that the development would not undermine agricultural productivity.
“We need food, but we also need affordable housing for residents. The project is part of a balanced development strategy,” he said.
Backing the commissioner’s position, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, emphasized that the state government remains fully involved in the project, having provided the land for the development.
He dismissed criticisms surrounding the initiative as politically motivated, insisting that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to improving infrastructure and living standards.
In addition to the housing project, the state government outlined plans to restructure urban transportation within Umuahia.
Kanu disclosed that commercial transport operators would be relocated from Okigwe Park to a new ultra-modern bus terminal nearing completion.
He added that traders around Isi Gate would be temporarily moved to Okigwe Park pending the completion of Afara Market.
Furthermore, discussions are ongoing between the state government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation to establish a new train station near the bus terminal, alongside the development of an urban rail corridor.
The government noted that these initiatives form part of a broader plan to modernise infrastructure, boost economic activities, and improve the overall quality of life for residents across the state.
