The Abia State Government has secured a major financial breakthrough with a \$263.8 million package to upgrade key infrastructure in Aba and Umuahia. The funding comes from the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The fund will be used to rehabilitate roads, control erosion, and improve waste management under the Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development Project, officially launched on July 11, 2025.
According to a statement from the African Development Bank on Wednesday, the project is aimed at modernizing urban infrastructure, improving transportation, and promoting environmentally sustainable development in the state.
Out of the total amount, the AfDB is contributing \$115 million — \$100 million from its core funding window and \$15 million from the Canada-AfDB Climate Fund. The IsDB is co-financing with \$125 million, while the Federal Government will provide \$23.8 million in counterpart funding.
Over 248 kilometers of roads will be rehabilitated in Aba and Umuahia. Two major erosion sites will be restored, and solid waste management will be strengthened through partnerships with private investors.
The project also includes social programs like job creation, youth and women empowerment, skills training, and HIV/AIDS awareness. It is expected to create over 3,000 temporary construction jobs and 1,000 permanent jobs, with half targeted at young people.
Governor Alex Otti, speaking at the launch, described the project as a “defining moment” in the state’s development. He pledged to uphold transparency and accountability in its execution.
The African Development Bank will provide technical support and closely monitor the project through its Nigeria Country Department.
This project marks one of the biggest infrastructure investments in Abia’s history and is expected to significantly improve public health, mobility, and economic growth in the state.