Abia State Government Declares War on Fake Drug Producers
The Abia State Government has issued a stern warning to producers of fake drugs in Aba, vowing to clamp down on the illicit trade and prosecute offenders. This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a press briefing in Umuahia after the weekly Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
The Commissioner stated that security agencies have been directed to track down individuals involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit drugs, ensuring that they face the full wrath of the law. He warned those engaging in such harmful activities to desist immediately, emphasizing the government commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of Abia residents.
In a bold move to modernize Umuahia, the state capital, the government has launched several urban renewal and beautification projects aimed at transforming the city into a smart city. One of the key initiatives is the relocation of illegal traders from Isigate to Okwulaga-Afara, a decision that aligns with the government vision of decongesting the city center.
According to Kanu, land for the new market has been secured, and compensation has been fully paid to the landowners. Construction work, including perimeter fencing, is currently underway. The relocation will create space for a new bus terminal and other transport infrastructure projects designed to improve traffic flow and enhance the city aesthetics.
As part of the smart city project, the state government, through the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), has introduced new building projection regulations. Property owners will now be allowed to project their buildings up to 1.5 meters, a move aimed at standardizing architectural designs across Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia.
Kanu emphasized that the policy would contribute to the beautification of the state, making Abia a more organized and visually appealing environment.
A major infrastructural project under the urban renewal plan is the expansion of Library Avenue (Bank Road). The 1.385-kilometer stretch will be widened into a two-lane road on either side of the median, improving traffic flow and accessibility. The project will also include drainage system upgrades to prevent flooding.
Upon completion, the new road network will provide a modernized entrance to the Government House, linking Okpara Avenue and the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) axis.
To improve public transportation, the government has embarked on the construction of ten modern bus shelters across Umuahia, starting from Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard. These shelters are expected to provide better convenience for commuters while enhancing the city transport system.
The Commissioner revealed that the state government currently has 28 ongoing road construction projects spread across different parts of Abia, with contractors working diligently to meet set deadlines. Additionally, 44 direct labor sites are operational, with 35 projects still in progress and a few already completed.
Prince Kanu reiterated the state government stance against reckless driving, cautioning motorists against driving against traffic. He stressed that violators would be prosecuted under existing traffic laws, regardless of distance.
Furthermore, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, announced that all illegal motor parks within the Isigate area would soon be removed as part of the city reorganization efforts.
To address the growing housing needs in the state, the government has unveiled plans for four major housing projects. Two of these projects will be in Umuahia, one in Aba, and another in Ukwa West. The affected areas include Valley View in Umuahia, Mbaisii, Mgbarakuma, and Obehie in Ukwa West LGA.
Additionally, the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumereije, disclosed that the government is set to launch a large-scale housing initiative dubbed the New Umuahia Project. The development will cover approximately 2,000 hectares of land between Umuahia Tower and Ntigha in Isiala Ngwa North LGA, impacting 19 communities.
The General Manager of UCDA, Mr. Kingsley Agomuo, revealed that in addition to the ongoing market relocation, the bus terminal at Abia Tower along the Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway will be renovated to accommodate heavy-duty trucks and improve transport logistics in the state.
With a strong focus on urban renewal, infrastructural development, and security, the Abia State Government is taking decisive steps to transform Umuahia into a smart city. The crackdown on fake drugs, the expansion of key road networks, the introduction of modern bus shelters, and the implementation of strict urban planning policies reflect the government commitment to making Abia a more organized, secure, and investor-friendly state.
