The Abiriba community is set for major infrastructural and social relief following firm commitments secured from the Abia State Government on electricity restoration, erosion control, and the rehabilitation of Akahaba General Hospital.
The breakthrough followed a high-level engagement on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, when the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union (ACIU) Worldwide, led by its President General, Chief Yuccee Ottah Uwah (Ike Abiriba), met with Governor Alex Otti (OFR) at the Government House, Umuahia.
At the heart of the meeting was a coordinated push by the Abiriba leadership to draw urgent government attention to long-standing challenges threatening lives, livelihoods, and economic growth in the ancient kingdom.
Presenting documented and architectural evidence, Chief Uwah highlighted severe erosion sites at Ogbu Agbokere Umueso, Uzo Nde Okoronta, and Agboji, warning that continued inaction could result in the loss of homes and critical infrastructure.
He also stressed that the absence of stable electricity has continued to undermine commercial and industrial activity in the community, despite the completion of the Umuahia–Abiriba road.
“Without power, the full economic value of Abiriba cannot be unlocked,” he said, describing electricity as the final link needed to stimulate enterprise in what is often referred to as Abia’s “Small London.”
Responding, Governor Otti commended the ACIU for its unity, clarity of purpose, and evidence-based advocacy, assuring the delegation that the state government is already implementing a permanent power solution for Abiriba and the wider Abia North zone.
He disclosed that the electricity intervention is at an advanced stage and will be delivered soon.
On healthcare, the Governor announced that the redesign and complete remodeling of Akahaba General Hospital has been approved, with construction work expected to commence shortly. He said the project is aimed at restoring the hospital as a functional referral centre for surrounding communities.
Addressing environmental concerns, Governor Otti directed the Ministry of Environment and other relevant agencies to immediately assess the erosion flashpoints identified by the ACIU and begin intervention.
In a move seen as a strong vote of confidence in local enterprise, Governor Otti revealed that the Abia State Government has successfully re-acquired the Star Paper Mill from AMCON.
Rather than hand the facility to foreign investors, he challenged Abiriba investors to take over its operations and preserve the legacy of its founder, the late Chief Nnanna Kalu.
The Governor said the state prefers local ownership that guarantees community participation and sustainable industrial revival.
Chief Uwah also briefed the Governor on resolutions from the ACIU Diaspora meeting held on December 29, noting that Abiriba professionals abroad are mobilising capital to establish factories and support local development efforts.
Former Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa, speaking on behalf of stakeholders, praised the administration’s responsiveness, saying the government has delivered within two years what previous administrations failed to achieve over decades.
He cited improvements in civil service efficiency and land administration as evidence of effective governance.
The ACIU delegation comprised central executives, branch leaders, former officers, diaspora representatives, and key community stakeholders.
The meeting marked a significant step in Abiriba’s engagement with the Abia State Government, with community leaders expressing optimism that the commitments will translate into visible action in the months ahead.
ACIU secures commitments as Otti backs power, hospital, erosion projects
