The Abia State Government has said it is in advanced talks with the Nigerian Railway Corporation for the construction of a new train station in Umuahia.
The state Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held in the state capital.
Kanu said the proposed station would be sited near the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal and would incorporate an integrated urban rail system with commercial and retail components to stimulate economic activities.
He added that plans were also underway to construct access roads linking the facility to adjoining communities to enhance connectivity.
The commissioner further revealed that the government, through the Umuahia Capital Development Authority, had stepped up efforts to relocate traders from the Isi-Gate axis to the newly developed Relief Market in Afara.
According to him, necessary arrangements for the relocation had been concluded, with compensation paid to affected landowners, while fencing of the new market site was ongoing.
Kanu noted that the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal had been completed and was set for inauguration, adding that supporting infrastructure for the Umuahia Green Bus Service Scheme had been fully installed.
He listed the facilities to include charging stations, ticketing points, improved road junctions and bus shelters across the city.
He expressed optimism that the projects would position Umuahia among cities with modern transport systems in the country.
Kanu also disclosed that the Greater Aba Development Authority had completed several projects awaiting inauguration, including road networks and a new daily market.
He said the projects were expected to boost commerce and align with the state’s economic development agenda.
The commissioner further announced that the state, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Housing, had concluded plans for the groundbreaking of a Federal Housing Authority estate in Umuahia.
He said the project, located along the Umuahia–Uzuakoli Road, was aimed at expanding access to affordable housing and promoting sustainable urban development, adding that the ceremony would take place on Tuesday.
