Abia State Unveils UN-Backed Master Plans For Aba, Umuahia, Pledges Airport Development

Dr. Alex Otti, the governor of Abia State, has announced the completion of a UN-produced master plan for Aba, the state’s commercial hub, as well as the ongoing development of a similar plan for Umuahia, the state capital.

Governor Otti, speaking at a two-day retreat for Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), stated that this is the first time both cities will have credible master plans, despite previous claims to the contrary.

The retreat, titled “The New Abia State University of Our Dream through Excellence and Service, the Governing Council Approach,” brought together key stakeholders to discuss challenges facing the university.

Governor Otti emphasised the value of education and knowledge in development, distinguishing those who invest in their communities from those who prioritise less impactful ventures.

He also confirmed the impending start of work on the Abia airport project, stating that preparations are complete and contractors are ready to go.

Addressing ABSU’s future, Governor Otti praised the visionary leadership of Chief Sam Mbakwe, the former governor of Old Imo State who established the university.

However, he stated that the original vision of a multi-campus university was hampered by financial constraints.

As a result, the governor announced the transfer of the Umuahia campus to the main campus in Uturu, a decision supported by a recent Visitation Panel report.

He also announced the immediate construction of new buildings for the Law and Agriculture faculties in Uturu, with completion expected by the end of the next academic year. Governor Otti assured students of his upcoming visit to the university.

Dr. Agwu U. Agwu, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, emphasised ABSU’s historical significance as Nigeria’s second state university, and praised its alumni network.

He emphasised the importance of addressing the institution’s numerous challenges, noting the wide range of stakeholders who attended the retreat, including representatives from the host community, Senate, alumni, staff unions (ASUU, SSANU, NAAT), and the Students Union Government.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ndukwe Okeudo, praised Governor Otti’s commitment to transforming Abia State. A lecture by Chief Hezekiah Madumere, a retired Permanent Secretary, emphasised the financial constraints that made ABSU’s original multi-campus vision unsustainable.

Madumere, who helped establish the university, explained that maintaining multiple campuses would be prohibitively expensive.