Abia to launch industrial policy; 77,774 residents benefit from free bus rides

The Abia State government has announced plans to soon launch an Industrial Policy aimed at boosting the ease of doing business, creating a conducive environment for investment, and driving the implementation of its long-term 2025–2050 development plan. A committee has already been established to oversee the initiative.

Prince Okey Kanu, the state Commissioner for Information, disclosed this on Tuesday at Government House, Umuahia, while briefing journalists on the outcomes of the week’s State Executive Council meeting.

Kanu explained that the Industrial Policy is a strategic response to the state’s transformation across governance and institutional reforms over the past 31 months.

“Abia State Government believes the time has come to establish an industrial policy that will drive the industrial development of the state,” he said. “Already, through the Ease of Doing Business Agency, we have made significant progress in enhancing the business environment in Abia.”

He added that the new policy, combined with a favourable business climate, would attract investors, promote development, and strengthen the state’s comparative advantages in resource management and utilisation.

On the state’s urban renewal efforts, Kanu said plans are underway in line with the 2025–2050 development plan. These will be championed by the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA), and Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA).

“The initiative will address infrastructure gaps such as street naming, house numbering, and geo-referencing to ensure order and support overall economic growth,” he said.

Kanu explained that poorly named or numbered streets often cause confusion, impacting planning, security, logistics, and digital services. “Standardised street naming and house numbering creates a sense of order that clearly benefits investors. The state government will soon appoint a project manager to drive this important project,” he said.

On infrastructure, Kanu said the State Ministry of Works undertook direct labour projects in 49 locations across Abia. Of these, three projects have been completed, one new project added to the ministry’s maintenance basket, and 31 ongoing road projects are currently under contract.

On the state’s pilot electric bus mass transit service, Kanu reported that the buses are performing well, providing free rides to residents. “So far, 77,774 persons have benefited from the free bus service since it was launched in December 2025,” he said.