Aba Smart City, No 1. Macaulay Street, Umuahia, Aba (2026)

16/03/2026

Governor Alex Otti Leads Strategic Engagement with Yutong Delegation to Advance Modern Transport in Abia State

The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, continues to demonstrate visionary leadership and commitment to infrastructural development as he welcomed a high-powered delegation of Yutong, one of the world’s leading bus manufacturers, to the Government House in Umuahia.

Representing the Governor during this significant engagement were his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, alongside High Chief J. N. Amakwe, Special Adviser on PPP-IP, and Chief Sunday Afurobi, Chairman of Umunneochi Local Government Area. Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor, De-Ultimate commander, leader of the United Abia Artistes and Patriots (UAAP) Forum, their presence underscored the Abia State Government’s strong commitment to strategic partnerships that will reposition the state for sustainable development.

The visit marks an important step in Governor Otti’s ongoing efforts to modernize the transportation system in Abia State. The engagement brought together officials of Yutong and their local partners, including Everyday Motors Ltd, to explore innovative ways to revitalize the State Transport System (STS) and improve mobility for residents.

The high-level delegation included:

Frank Lee – MD, West Africa, Yutong

Damian Li – Account Manager, Yutong

Xu Wenting – Head of R&D, Yutong

Duanmu – Financial Manager, Yutong

Zhang Lianjun – Product Manager, Yutong

Gao Pengchao – Marketing Manager, Yutong

Zhao Meizhou – New Energy Manager, Yutong

Amb. Dr. Osita Offor – Head of Delegation, UAAP

Tony Godson Anyanwu Project Promoter, Yutong & Everyday Motors

Emeka Okelo, Chairman, Everyday Motors Ltd

Mercy Torty – Everyday Motors Ltd

Chief Mayor Afurobi – Umunneochi LGA Chairman

Chief Ben Etie Junior (Ochiagha Nneato)

During the discussions, the delegation explored opportunities for introducing modern, high-capacity buses—including new energy and environmentally friendly models- to strengthen public transport across the state. The initiative aligns with Governor Otti’s broader vision of building a modern transport system that promotes efficiency

13/02/2026

Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor – De Ultimate Commander, the Ikenga Gburugburu of Ohafia Ancient Kingdom, passionately calls on the great and resilient people of Abia State to rise and take their rightful place in shaping the future of our dear state.

This is a defining moment in our history. The time has come for every son and daughter of Abia to stand up, be counted, and actively participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise. Our future cannot be left in the hands of a few. It requires the collective strength, voice, and commitment of all of us.

Through the platform of Abia Arise, we are encouraged to unite with one vision. a vision for progress, development, accountability, and purposeful leadership. Real change begins with participation. Real transformation begins with action.

Your Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) is not just an ordinary card. it is your power. It is your voice. It is your constitutional right. It is your peaceful weapon for demanding good governance and sustainable development. When you register and vote, you are taking responsibility for the future of our children, our communities, and generations yet unborn.

Let no one tell you your vote does not count. Let no one discourage you from participating in the democratic process. Democracy thrives when the people are involved. The strength of Abia lies in the unity and participation of its citizens.

Therefore, Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor urges every eligible citizen, youths, women, men, professionals, artisans, traders, students, and elders. to go out, register, update their voter information where necessary, and prepare to exercise their civic duty.

Together, we can build the Abia of our dreams.
Together, we can secure a brighter tomorrow.
Together, we will rise.

Abia Arise!
Abia Arise!!
Abia Arise!!!

Your PVC is your weapon.
Voting is your right.
The future is in your hands.

06/02/2026

How Aba Commercial Smart City will boost economy, create jobs — Otti
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, says that the proposed Aba Commercial Smart City, a strategically situated Public-Private Partnership investment hub sitting on a 140-hectare land at Osisioma, will, on completion, launch Aba into an industrial centre for sustainable economic development and job creation.

Otti, who was speaking on Wednesday during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Aba Commercial Smart City and United Market Leaders/Traders held in Umuahia, noted that the project, when realized, will practically transform the state and modernize trade, commerce, manufacturing, and logistics.

Otti, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, said that the project is also in line with the vision of his administration towards creating prosperity among the people.

He assured the investment partners, Equatorial Marine Oil and Gas Ltd, EMOG Group, of a conducive business environment, adding that the needed infrastructure and other requirements have been put in place for the smooth take-off and realization of the project.

“So what we are saying today is a reflection of that vision, that once the right atmosphere, the right environment has been created, investors will come. Investors are not emotional.

“When we talk about the Aba Commercial Smart City, it is a project that will significantly transform Aba and indeed Abia.”

In an address by the Group Managing Director of Aba Commercial Smart City, Professor Chinedu Nebo, represented by the President, Aba Commercial Smart City, Amb. Osita Offor, he said that the project, which is the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa, is also a bold stride towards positioning Abia as a global gateway to Africa’s commerce and industrial revolution.

He said that the Aba Commercial Smart City is a symbol of prosperity through enterprise, designed to restore Aba’s pride as Africa’s commercial heartbeat and connect it seamlessly to global trade corridors.

In his technical speech, the Manager, Technical Services, Aba Commercial Smart City, Mr. David Okoro, said that the project is built on four core pillars of innovation, including automated manufacturing, medical, commerce, hospitality, and smart housing, logistics efficiency and smart energy, noting that the smart city is a resilient city where business thrives on intelligence and connectivity.

He noted that the project, with an e-commerce platform integrated with bonded terminals, will put an end to importers’ struggles by enabling cross-border transactions from home, with goods delivered straight to their doorstep.

According to Mr. Okoro, the economic benefits of the project are enormous, as it would boost the state’s IGR and create 25,000 direct and 100,000 indirect jobs across construction, ICT, manufacturing, and retail.

In his remarks, the Group Vice Chairman and former Inspector General of Police, Dr Mike Okiro, said Governor Otti is, through the project, restoring the lost glory of Aba as the commercial and industrial hub of Nigeria, adding that many investors are bringing their money for the timely actualization of the project for the benefit of Abians and Nigerians at large.

Fielding questions from newsmen, the President, Leather Products Manufacturers Association of Abia State, Deacon Confidence Nwobilo, used the opportunity to call on the government, foreign and local investors, private sector players and individual members “to find ways to invest in our industrial sectors for the industrial development of our state for economic development and importance, which will create employment opportunities and increase our GDP”.

06/02/2026

UAAP President, Amb. Osita Offor Applauds Pst. Caleb Ajagba, Ukwa La Ngwa for Honouring Gov. Alex Otti, Endorses Second Term

Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor “De Ultimate Commander” (Ikenga Gburugburu), the president of United Abia Artistes and Patriots (Forum), has applauded their foundation member,
Pastor Caleb Ajagba, the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Abia State for his steady coordination role and unwavering commitment to the Governor’s reform agenda, describing him as a quiet but effective bridge between policy vision and ex*****on. He also praised the Ukwa La Ngwa people for honoring Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, describing the recognition as a strong vote of confidence in a leader whose impact is already redefining governance in the state.

Speaking on the honour, Ambassador Osita Offor noted that the gesture reflects the growing appreciation across Abia State for Governor Otti’s pragmatic, transparent, and people-oriented leadership, which has, in a short period, altered the trajectory of the state for the better.

According to the undisputed heavy weight champion, Gov. Alex Otti’s administration has demonstrated uncommon commitment to renewed infrastructural urban development, fiscal responsibility, accountability, civil service reforms, environmental sanitation, and restoring public trust in government and setting new standards for leadership in Abia.

“Governor Alex Otti has shown that governance is about service, not self-interest. His leadership style is redefining public expectations and proving that Abia can be governed with integrity, competence, and compassion,” Ambassador Osita Offor said.

He further commended the Governor’s approach to inclusive development, stressing that both urban centres and rural communities are beginning to feel the positive impact of deliberate and well-thought-out policies aimed at long-term growth and sustainability.

Ambassador Osita Offor also specially applauded other illustrious sons and daughters of Ngwa Land, across board and beyond party lines, for standing firmly on the side of performance, competence, and good governance, irrespective of political affiliation. According to him, such unity of purpose in support of results-driven leadership is a positive signal for democratic maturity and sustainable development in Abia State.

Ambassador Osita Offor described the honour by Ukwa La Ngwa as symbolic, not just of local appreciation, but of a wider consensus among Abians that the state is firmly back on the path of progress.

Reaffirming his unwavering support for Governor Otti, the Ikenga Gburugburu openly endorsed him for a second tenure, arguing that continuity is essential for consolidating the reforms and developmental strides already recorded.

“Abia has moved forward, and we must not reverse the gains. Governor Otti deserves the opportunity of a second term to complete the transformation agenda he has courageously begun,” he stated.

He concluded by calling on Abians across political, ethnic, and social lines to continue supporting the Governor’s vision, emphasizing that good governance should always be encouraged and protected in the collective interest of the state.

06/02/2026

Amb. Osita Offor Hails Gov. Alex Otti as Labour Party Reclaims Stability Under His Steady Leadership

Abuja, Nigeria – Ambassador Dr. Osita Offior “De Ultimate Commander” (Ikenga Gburugburu), President of the United Abia Artistes and Patriots (UAAP) Forum, has publicly congratulated the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for demonstrating pragmatic, mature, and unifying leadership that has successfully restored peace and stability within the Labour Party following months of internal disagreements.

In a statement released on behalf of the UAAP Forum, Ambassador Offior also extended sincere appreciation to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, for upholding democratic principles by ensuring that justice is upheld. Offior described INEC’s actions as instrumental in safeguarding the democratic will of the people and reinforcing trust in Nigeria’s electoral system.

“Governor Alex Otti’s calm intervention and principled leadership style played a decisive role in resolving the protracted internal squabbles that once threatened the cohesion and public perception of the Labour Party in Nigeria,” Offior said. “We also recognize the critical role of INEC in maintaining the sanctity of our democracy. Their actions reflect a collective commitment to the rule of law and democratic stability.”

According to Offior, Governor Otti has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to rise above factional interests and place party unity ahead of personal or group considerations — a clear sign of statesmanship and political maturity. He stressed that such leadership qualities are rare in contemporary Nigerian politics and should be acknowledged as defining strengths of the Abia Governor.

The UAAP Forum President further commended Governor Otti for consistently aligning his political conduct with democratic values, dialogue, and consensus-building, rather than confrontation. He observed that the restored peace within the Labour Party has not only strengthened internal party structures but has also renewed public confidence in the party’s capacity to govern responsibly.

Beyond party affairs, Ambassador Offior highlighted that Governor Otti’s success in stabilizing the Labour Party mirrors his broader governance approach in Abia State. He cited the Governor’s commitment to transparency, fiscal discipline, infrastructural renewal, youth empowerment, grassroots engagement, and people-oriented policies as evidence of a leader who understands both politics and governance as tools for public good.

Ambassador Offior also pointed out that the stabilisation of the Labour Party under Governor Otti’s watch has positioned Abia State as a model of political maturity, sending a strong signal to the national political space that internal democracy and responsible leadership can coexist with effective governance.

In a show of renewed optimism, Offior reassured Abians and Nigerians that the Labour Party will be rebuilt into a strong, competitive, and visionary political force across all states of the federation. He urged party members to embrace unity and collective purpose, stressing that the rebuilt Labour Party will stand stronger, more resilient, and prepared to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

The UAAP Forum used the opportunity to reaffirm its unwavering support for Governor Otti’s administration, expressing confidence that his leadership will continue to inspire unity, progress, and purposeful governance. Ambassador Offior concluded by urging party stakeholders and Abians at large to rally behind the Governor as he consolidates reforms aimed at rebuilding institutions, restoring public trust, and repositioning Abia State for sustainable and inclusive development.

He described Governor Otti as a leader whose actions continue to validate the hopes and aspirations of the people, noting that history will remember him as one who prioritised peace, unity, and progress over division and personal ambition.

06/02/2026

ABIA GOVT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT AS ABA COMMERCIAL SMART CITY PROJECT TAKES OFF

The Abia state government has reaffirmed its commitment to creating an enabling environment for investors to thrive in the state.

Governor Alex Otti made the pledge at the Government House, Umuahia, during the signing of a memorandum of understanding between some investors who were in the state to develop Aba Commercial Smart City.

Governor Otti, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Caleb Ajagba, said that the initiative aligns with his administration’s vision to create a business-friendly environment and drive sustainable economic growth.

According to the Governor, the proposed project, if achieved, would attract investments and generate massive employment opportunities in the state.

Governor Otti said that his administration was focused on fixing infrastructure and creating the right investment climate rather than chasing investors, noting that investors were guided by returns on investment.

In his speech, a senior member of the board, retired Inspector General of Police, Mr Mike Okiro, assured that the proposed project would not be abandoned, describing it as a one-stop initiative fully backed by the state government.

Correspondent Peace Agbo reports that the proposed smart city would house markets, commercial centres, housing, schools, and recreation facilities on 140 hectares in the Osisioma local government area of the state.

06/02/2026

Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has reiterated the intention of his administration to partner with genuine investors in line with the global business standard.
This, according to him, would facilitate easy growth of the state economy and enable it to develop in line with advanced economies.
Speaking while receiving members of the Aba Commercial Smart City (ACSC), who were in Government House, Umuahia, for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), between the Aba Commercial Smart City and United Market Leaders/Traders, Otti explained that a sound economy would not only create jobs, but would engender conducive atmosphere for people to live comfortably.

06/02/2026

Aba Commercial Smart City (ACSC) MoU Signing: Gov. Otii Set to Redefine Abia’s Economic Future

For decades, Aba has stood as the commercial engine of the Southeast—an industrial city powered by indigenous ingenuity, craftsmanship, and trade. From leatherworks and garments to metal fabrication and wholesale commerce, Aba’s entrepreneurial energy has remained resilient despite years of infrastructural neglect. Today, that resilience is being deliberately matched with planning, technology, and investment through the proposed Aba Commercial Smart City, strategically located at Arongwa in Aba–Osisioma Local Government Area.

Conceived as one of the flagship economic legacy projects of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, the Aba Commercial Smart City (ACSC)seeks to transform Aba’s largely informal industrial strength into a structured, technology-driven, and globally competitive commercial ecosystem.

Urban development experts note that Osisioma has long functioned as Aba’s industrial and logistics gateway, hosting major transport corridors linking Aba to Port Harcourt, Owerri, and the wider South–South. Arongwa, in particular, offers the scale and spatial flexibility required for purpose-built industrial clusters, logistics parks, smart housing, and modern business districts—relieving pressure on inner Aba while expanding its economic footprint.

“This project is not about relocating Aba’s soul,” Governor Otti is quoted as saying through his Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, who represented him at the event, “It is about giving Aba the structure, infrastructure, and systems it needs to compete in today’s economy without losing its identity.”

Delivering a technical presentation on the project, the Manager of Technical Services, Aba Commercial Smart City (ACSC), Mr. David Okoro, explained that the development is anchored on four core pillars of innovation. According to him, these include automated manufacturing, advanced medical and commercial services, hospitality, smart housing, logistics efficiency, and smart energy systems designed to power a modern industrial city.

Unlike conventional smart city developments driven largely by luxury real estate, the Aba Commercial Smart City (ACSC)is deliberately structured as a production-and-trade ecosystem. The master plan prioritizes smart industrial clusters, SME manufacturing parks, warehousing and logistics hubs, wholesale and export-processing zones, alongside technology-enabled commercial services.

Central to the project’s viability is its Public–Private Partnership (PPP) framework, complemented by an Independent Power and Infrastructure (IP) model. This approach allows private capital to co-develop, finance, and operate critical infrastructure, while the government provides policy direction, regulation, and an enabling business environment.

According to the Special Adviser to the Abia State Governor on Investment, Chief Nwaka Inem, the model is intentionally structured to avoid the pitfalls of abandoned government industrial estates. “The PPP and IP model ensures that this project is bankable, sustainable, and insulated from the funding failures that plagued past state-led initiatives,” he said.

Power supply—historically one of Aba’s biggest constraints—occupies a central place in the project’s design. Embedded and independent power solutions, combining gas, renewable energy, and smart grid technologies, are expected to significantly reduce reliance on diesel generators, cut production costs, and improve environmental sustainability.

Beyond infrastructure, the project also introduces a digital operating system for commerce and governance. Business registration, licensing, taxation, land administration, and utility management are to be digitized, while smart surveillance, traffic control, and emergency response systems will be centrally coordinated.

“The goal is predictability,” said Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor, ‘De Ultimate Commander,’ President of Aba Commercial Smart City (ACSC). “Investors and entrepreneurs must know the rules, trust the systems, and plan long-term.”

The project has drawn strong interest from key industrial stakeholders. President of the Leather Products Manufacturers Association of Abia State, Mr. Confidence Nwaobilor, described the initiative as timely, noting that it aligns with the association’s long-standing demand for a structured industrial cluster. He said such an environment would significantly boost leather production, improve quality control, and enhance export competitiveness.

In his remarks, the Group Vice Chairman of the project and former Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Mike Okiro, said the initiative represents a strategic effort by Governor Otti to restore Aba’s lost glory as Nigeria’s commercial and industrial hub, stressing that security, infrastructure, and order are essential foundations for sustainable commerce.

The employment implications are equally significant, with projections of over 150,000 direct and indirect jobs across construction, manufacturing, logistics, ICT services, facility management, healthcare, hospitality, and retail. Embedded vocational centres and innovation hubs are designed to integrate Aba’s youthful population into the emerging smart economy.

Equally important is the project’s role in urban decongestion. By relocating heavy logistics, warehousing, and large-scale industrial operations to Arongwa, inner Aba markets such as Ariaria and Ekeoha are expected to benefit from improved traffic flow, enhanced safety, and better urban management.

For the Otti administration, the Aba Commercial Smart City reflects a broader governance philosophy anchored on planning discipline, fiscal prudence, and private-sector partnership. It marks a shift from ad-hoc interventions to integrated, long-term economic infrastructure.

If delivered as envisioned, the Aba Commercial Smart City could redefine Aba’s role in Nigeria’s economy—preserving its historic entrepreneurial spirit while equipping it with the systems required for 21st-century commerce. In doing so, it may stand as one of the most enduring economic legacies of the current administration.

Aba Smart City

16/03/2026

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