Abia State to Receive $263.8 Million Infrastructure Boost from AfDB, Islamic Development Bank

Abia State is set for a major infrastructural leap as the African Development Bank (AfDB), in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Federal Government of Nigeria, and the Abia State Government, has officially launched a $263.8 million integrated infrastructure development project to transform key urban centers in the state.

The project was formally launched on July 11, 2025, and is designed to address critical infrastructure deficits in urban transport, erosion control, and waste management across the cities of Aba and Umuahia. The African Development Bank made the announcement in a press statement issued on Wednesday.

Describing the project as a transformative initiative, AfDB revealed that the funding includes $115 million from the Bank itself—comprising $100 million from its core ADB window and $15 million from the Canada-AfDB Climate Fund. The Islamic Development Bank is contributing $125 million, while the Federal Government of Nigeria is providing $23.8 million in counterpart funding.

The project will facilitate the rehabilitation of more than 248 kilometres of roads, restoration of two major erosion sites, and the promotion of solid waste management through public-private partnerships. According to the Bank, these interventions will modernise Abia’s urban infrastructure, reduce travel time, boost public health, and stimulate economic productivity.

Speaking at the launch event, Governor Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, described the initiative as a turning point in Abia’s development journey.

“The fruits of development are richer when supported by partners who believe in your vision. Investor confidence is growing, public optimism is rising, and Abia is emerging as a destination of choice for opportunity and impact,” he said.

The project will generate an estimated 3,000 temporary jobs during its construction phase, with 30% of these roles reserved for women. In the operational phase, approximately 1,000 permanent jobs will be created—50% of which are designated for youth. The state will also launch a Youth Road Maintenance Corps, drawing from local engineers across all 17 Local Government Areas.

Dr. Abdul Kamara, Director General of AfDB’s Nigeria Country Department, emphasized the human-centered goals of the project.

“At its core, this project is about lives — reducing travel time, increasing incomes, improving access to schools and hospitals, and empowering entrepreneurs, especially women and youth,” Kamara stated.

The project also includes robust social and environmental safeguards, such as training for women and youth entrepreneurs, resettlement support, and public health campaigns focusing on HIV/AIDS prevention. It will also introduce enhancements to procurement and financial management systems in the state.

Dr. Akande Oyebola, Assistant Director at the Federal Ministry of Finance, hailed the project as a bold step toward boosting economic growth, infrastructure renewal, and better living standards in Abia State. He said the initiative reflects a shared vision for national development and inclusive prosperity.

With its ambitious scope and multilateral backing, the Abia Integrated Infrastructure Development Project is poised to reshape the state’s urban landscape, enhance quality of life, and set a new benchmark for public-private collaboration in regional development.