Federal Government, AfDB Drive Accelerated Take-Off of ABSIID As Otti Clears Bottlenecks

In a renewed push backed strongly by federal collaboration and international financing support,the
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has taken decisive steps to eliminate all impediments delaying the commencement of the Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development (ABSIID) projects.

The Governor made this known while receiving a high-level delegation from the Federal Ministry of Finance and the African Development Bank, who were in the state to strengthen coordination and accelerate the rollout of the strategic infrastructure initiative.

In a clear demonstration of commitment, Governor Otti emphasized that the state had already fulfilled its financial obligation with the payment of a ₦2 billion counterpart fund, positioning Abia as ready for immediate project execution.

He, however, identified internal communication gaps,not funding as the primary obstacle delaying progress.
Declaring an urgent timeline, the Governor rejected proposals to delay the project flag-off until mid-year, insisting instead on an April commencement to avoid further setbacks, particularly with the looming rainy season.
“Whatever it takes, we must flag-off in April. It is not in our best interest to delay. The issues are non-critical, and we will resolve them immediately,” Otti stated.

To institutionalize accountability and ensure momentum, the Governor directed his Chief of Staff to integrate into the ABSIID implementation team and provide him with weekly progress reports, signaling a hands-on executive oversight approach.

Governor Otti also acknowledged lapses in internal reporting structures, noting that inaccurate briefings had previously misattributed delays to federal agencies and development partners. He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to restore efficiency and transparency in project coordination.

Earlier, the leader of the federal delegation, Oyebola Akande, commended the Abia State Government for the prompt release of counterpart funding, stressing that the success of the ABSIID project hinges on synchronized efforts among the state, federal government, and development financiers.
She highlighted the urgency of fast-tracking implementation, noting that two out of the five-year project timeline had already elapsed, and called for decisive intervention to dismantle bureaucratic delays within the state system.

Similarly, a representative of the AfDB, Sheila Akyza, reiterated the bank’s commitment to supporting the state in delivering the project, describing ABSIID as a transformational initiative and a significant development milestone for Abia.
The meeting underscores a strengthened federal-state-development partner synergy aimed at fast-tracking infrastructure delivery for the benefit of Abia residents.
With federal backing, development finance support, and renewed executive urgency, the ABSIID project now appears firmly on track for immediate take-off.

25th March, 2026