FG, World Bank, International Solar Alliance Partner Abia On Renewable Energy And Health Sector Reform
...Otti administration deepens infrastructure, environmental renewal and strengthens human capital development
The Abia State Government has announced strategic collaborations with the Federal Government, the World Bank, and the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to scale up renewable energy, accelerate infrastructure development, and strengthen healthcare delivery in the state.
Briefing journalists , the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, said the moves are part of the administration’s drive to reposition Abia as a hub for sustainable growth and inclusive development.
According to him, Abia is actively participating in the $750 million World Bank–backed Distributed Access to Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) programme, which will significantly expand electricity access across the state.
In addition, the government is working with the International Solar Alliance (ISA)—a treaty-based intergovernmental body of 123 member countries—to develop regulations for the operation of mini-grids under the recently signed Abia State Electricity Law 2025.
“This collaboration will enable ISA to support the state through solar power and public utilities, creating a thriving investment climate, sustaining renewable energy projects, and mitigating climate change,” Kanu explained.
He added that beyond the power sector, the Otti administration is also leveraging Federal Government backing to fast-track infrastructure delivery.
At present, 30 road contracts are ongoing across Abia, while the Ministry of Works is handling 54 direct labour projects, a cost-saving strategy that frees funds for other pressing priorities.
On environmental renewal, the Commissioner disclosed that the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) has deployed 2.7-tonne waste receptacles across Aba and Umuahia. Unlike the larger bins, the smaller receptacles are designed for easier mobility through narrow city roads.
He further revealed that ASEPA has embarked on a massive clean-up of blocked waterways and drainages, covering Afara, Golden Guinea, Modern Ceramics, and extending to Isialangwa, to prevent flooding during heavy rains.
Turning to the health sector, Kanu announced significant progress in the ongoing recruitment exercise aimed at strengthening manpower in the state’s healthcare institutions. Out of 1,983 applications received, 1,348 candidates have been shortlisted so far, with more expected as the process continues.
The Computer-Based Test (CBT) for shortlisted candidates is scheduled for August 26–30, while interviews for successful applicants will hold between September 2–16, 2025. He added that the Civil Service Commission has advertised openings for contract consultants, primary consultants, and medical officers, with the portal closing on August 30.
Kanu also announced the appointment of Dr. Friday Kanu Ohuche, a seasoned development economist, as Chief Economic Adviser and head of the Abia State Economic Management Team, to further guide the administration’s reform agenda.
While reaffirming Governor Otti’s commitment to transparency and accountability, the Commissioner warned detractors against spreading falsehoods about government activities.
“This government welcomes constructive criticism but will no longer tolerate deliberate misinformation aimed at misleading the public. Going forward, the administration will apply the full weight of the law against purveyors of falsehoods,” he cautioned.
Present at the briefing were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy, Engr. Kachi Etuluo, and the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, Pastor Mrs. Eno Jerry-Eze.
