Abia, NRC sign pact for access road across rail corridor

The Abia State Government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) have formalized a partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to construct a crucial access road. This agreement will enable the state to build a road across the railway corridor, linking Okpara Square and Akanu Ibiam Street to Bende Road in Umuahia, the state capital.

Governor Alex Otti highlighted that this access road is a key component of a broader plan to revitalize the state capital and alleviate traffic congestion around the railway corridor. He envisions the area evolving into a significant transportation hub, integrating the railway station, a bus terminal, and other related facilities. "By the time we integrate the mega station into the terminal, it will become a transportation hub," Otti stated, emphasizing the project's potential.

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And that’s why it is important that we have this. Because there are a lot of things, like I told you (MD), the last time, what we have in mind. And by the time we integrate the mega station into the terminal, it will become a transportation hub.

The governor has tasked the Commissioner for Transport, the Commissioner for Works, the General Manager of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority, and other officials to collaborate and ensure the project's swift completion. Otti also engaged with the Managing Director of the NRC, proposing an increase in train services on the Port Harcourt to Aba route.

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So, with the railway station, with the bus terminal, and of course, every other thing that goes with it to be in the same place. And it will look nice. So, now that we have this done, we can go ahead and commence.

Governor Otti further expressed Abia State's commitment to supporting federal initiatives, particularly in enhancing transportation infrastructure. He mentioned the recent arrival of new electric buses and plans for further expansion, aiming for a state-wide bus network. Additionally, he is working with neighboring Southeast governors to integrate regional rail networks, which would be significantly supported by the NRC.

The agreement also addresses the relocation of an existing police station within the railway corridor. The General Manager of UCDA has been directed to move the station to a temporary location and to develop designs for a new railway station that includes a police post, to be shared with the NRC. Governor Otti commended the NRC MD for using Abia as a model and for appointing a regional head who is performing well.

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See how we can do that. For us here, I’m sure you may have seen in the news that the new electric buses have come in, increasing the number to 40. Another 30 is on the way.