Abia State Governor, His Excellency Alex Otti
Abia State Reclaims Umuahia Market for Modern Transportation Hub
In a bold move to reshape the urban landscape of Umuahia, the Abia State Government has commenced the demolition of unauthorized structures at the former Umuahia market, popularly known as Ogwumabiri. The action, led by the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), marks a significant step toward transforming the city into a modern, world-class capital.
Reclaiming Public Space
According
to UCDA General Manager Kingsley Agomoh, the site was originally allocated to a
private investor under a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) agreement for the
construction of an event center. However, the investor deviated from the
approved plan and began developing residential duplexes and apartments without
government authorization.
“The
structures demolished were deemed unfit for the established purpose of
overriding public interest,” Agomoh stated. “The government has taken over the
space to repurpose it as part of a modern transportation hub.”
Vision for a Connected City
The new
transportation hub will integrate:
- A bus terminal to streamline
intra-city and intercity travel
- A train station to connect Umuahia to
national rail networks
- An intercity shuttle connection
point to
enhance regional mobility
This
infrastructure is expected to boost economic activity, reduce traffic
congestion, and elevate Umuahia’s status as a capital city.
Negotiation and Transition
The
government spent a year engaging the investor and offered a negotiated ex
gratia settlement to reclaim the land. This approach reflects the
administration’s commitment to being both business-friendly and
development-focused.
Lessons from Global Cities
Urban
centers like Tokyo, Denver, and Arnhem have successfully implemented
multi-modal transit hubs that serve as engines of growth. Abia’s initiative
echoes these global trends, emphasizing the importance of:
- Transparent land use
policies
- Strategic urban planning
- Public interest-driven
development
A New Chapter for Umuahia
As
demolition clears the way for progress, the UCDA affirms its dedication to
ensuring that the new hub enhances infrastructure, promotes efficient mobility,
and contributes to the overall economic growth of the city.
This
transformation signals a new chapter for Umuahia, one where connectivity,
innovation, and public purpose converge to shape a vibrant urban future.
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