The Abia State Government has approved the establishment of six modern greenhouses across its three senatorial zones to support year-round food production and modernise local farming. 

Speaking after the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti, Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu announced that two climate-controlled greenhouse facilities will be built in each senatorial district to enable continuous vegetable cultivation.

The government constituted an implementation committee for the Nigeria Agri-Business and Agro-Industrial Development Initiative (NADDI). This joint federal-state initiative focuses on unlocking Abia’s agricultural potential through value addition, agro-processing, and economic diversification. 

In tandem with agricultural projects, preparations are underway for the third Aba International Trade Fair, themed “Aba: The Pride of Nigeria, Innovation, Trade and Industrial Growth,” which will feature simultaneous exhibition and conference sessions. 

Additionally, the Ministry of Trade and Commerce is partnering with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to train and certify local entrepreneurs for export readiness, ensuring Made-in-Aba products meet international quality benchmarks.

The Executive Council also reviewed extensive civil works and urban renewal efforts across the state. The Ministry of Works is managing 26 contracted road projects alongside direct labour maintenance at 46 locations, including seasonal repairs on the 52-kilometre Opobo Junction–Azumini–Obehie Road and the Cottage Hospital access road in Ukwa East. 

In Umuahia, the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) has stepped up drainage desilting across flood-prone areas such as Shoprite–Uwalaka Road, Asaba Street Junction, Ndume Road, and Finbarr Road.

Furthermore, urban planning reviews are underway for several capital city markets, including Ogwumabiri Market near the Abia Tower, to determine whether to redevelop or relocate them to fit the state’s master plan. 

The state has also authorised the UCDA to execute long-awaited erosion control works in the Emede Ibeku Community. 

On housing, steady progress was reported at the Green City Site and Services Estate in Ukwa West, where perimeter fencing is completed, and internal road construction is actively progressing.

Source: Vanguard News
Image Credit: BW Rockers