By Peter Okore
The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to urban renewal and decongestion, aimed at improving the aesthetic appeal and living standards of residents in the state capital, Umuahia, while positioning the state as a model for progressive urban development in Nigeria.
The State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, made this known during an interactive session with journalists at the Government House, Umuahia, where he briefed the media on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting.
Kanu disclosed that the government is making arrangements to relocate markets to permanent sites as part of efforts to decongest the city. He also revealed that the state is set to commission the modern Umuahia Central Bus Terminal and is advancing plans for the Umuahia railway project, which is expected to take centre stage among several strategic initiatives.
He explained that these initiatives are designed to pave the way for a modern transportation system, support overall urban renewal efforts, and promote sustainable housing development across the state.
Speaking on the proposed Umuahia railway project, the commissioner said arrangements had reached an advanced stage for the construction of a new train station in the city, following productive discussions between the Abia State Government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation.
According to him, 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, aimed at boosting economic growth within the axis. He added that the bus terminal will also include guest houses to accommodate travellers who may need to rest before continuing their journeys.
Kanu further disclosed that a network of access roads will be developed to enhance connectivity to the facility and neighbouring communities.
He noted that the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) is intensifying efforts to relocate traders from the Isi-Gate area to the newly developed Relief Market at Afara. He said all necessary arrangements for the relocation have been concluded, including the full payment of compensation to affected landowners.
“In order to sanitise the city centre, particularly Isi-Gate, the government has concluded plans to relocate commercial vehicles from Okigwe Park to the ultra-modern bus terminal, while traders will be temporarily moved to Okigwe Park pending the completion of the Afara market,” Kanu stated.
The commissioner added that the relocation aligns with the government’s urban renewal and decongestion agenda, noting that perimeter fencing of the new market has been completed, while construction of the retaining wall is ongoing.
Kanu further revealed that construction of the ultra-modern Umuahia Central Bus Terminal is almost 100 per cent complete and ready for commissioning.
On the Abia Green Shuttle Bus Service Scheme, he said supporting infrastructure—including charging stations, ticketing points, junction improvement works, and strategically located bus shelters—has already been put in place across Umuahia.
“When fully operational, the new central bus terminal and the Green Shuttle Bus Service will position Umuahia among leading cities in Nigeria with modern and efficient public transportation systems,” he said.