The Abia State Government has commissioned a materials testing laboratory at the Umuahia Capital Development Authority to curb the growing incidents of building collapse in the state.
Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, announced the development while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Kanu said the facility is fully equipped to test concrete, soil, aggregates, asphalt, steel reinforcement, and conduct non-destructive and field tests. “The installation of this lab will ensure very high quality of engineering and building projects in the state. That is the very essence of its establishment,” he stated.
He added that preparations for the second cohort of the state’s ICT programme were nearly complete, with 850 applicants verified across all LGAs. Training is set to begin on September 25, aimed at boosting the state’s digital workforce and creating jobs. Nineteen participants from the first cohort have already been offered automatic employment.
In agriculture, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs is set to roll out the Ease Agricultural Intervention Project across the 17 LGAs. Prototype markets featuring 40 open stalls, solar-powered lighting, boreholes, public conveniences, and charging stations will be constructed starting within two weeks.
“The project will expand local trade, promote rural entrepreneurship, reduce rural-urban migration, and improve access to fresh produce,” Kanu said.
He also highlighted ongoing youth empowerment initiatives, including the Abia Soccer Fest competition, which is in progress across all LGAs to discover new sports talent and strengthen community engagement.
In the health sector, 25 out of 33 targeted primary healthcare centres have been made fully functional, with 42 already equipped and eight more expected to be completed this week. The state is on track to functionalise 200 PHCs under its phased programme.
Kanu further disclosed that plans are advanced to revitalise Abia Hotels Limited in Umuahia as part of the government’s efforts to recover moribund state-owned assets, with additional details to be released soon.
