The Abia State Government has released N3.5 billion as counterpart funding for a major rural infrastructure project aimed at improving road access and boosting agricultural logistics across 10 local government areas.
The funding is part of the World Bank-supported Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAMP), which seeks to open up rural communities to economic opportunities by enhancing transportation and market access for farmers.
The announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a media briefing at Government House in Umuahia on Tuesday, following an expanded State Executive Council meeting led by Governor Alex Otti.
“The state has paid its own counterpart funds, and we expect that with similar action from the World Bank, the project will commence across the state,” Kanu said.
He described the move as a critical investment, particularly for smallholder farmers who often face challenges in transporting their goods to markets.
Also speaking at the briefing, Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, emphasised the long-term impact of the funding. “His Excellency has once again demonstrated his commitment to developing our rural communities by investing in sustainable infrastructure,” she said.
In addition to the infrastructure plans, Kanu announced that one of the newly built 20 Smart Schools will be commissioned in Umuahia on Tuesday, as part of a week-long celebration marking Governor Otti’s second year in office.
Activities for the anniversary began with Children’s Day events and visits to orphanages by First Lady Priscilla Otti. Highlights of the week include a public lecture by former Finance Minister Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu on Wednesday, a state broadcast and banquet on Thursday, and a friendly football match between members of the executive and legislature on Friday.