The Abia State Government has approved a statewide tree planting campaign as part of its green initiative to combat climate change, enhance public health, and promote sustainable development.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this during a press briefing at Government House, Umuahia, while giving an update on the outcome of this week’s Executive Council meeting.
According to him, tree planting will not only improve climatic conditions, reduce erosion, and capture carbon, but will also beautify the environment, foster civic pride, and boost tourism. Economically, it is expected to cut flooding costs and make the state more attractive to investors.
“Beyond its environmental and economic value, this campaign will stand as a governance legacy, positioning Abia as a modern and sustainable state,” Kanu stated.
On flood control, the commissioner urged residents to keep drains and gutters clear of refuse in line with NIMET’s flood alert, adding that ASEPA is working round the clock in Aba and Umuahia to free blocked drainage systems. He appealed to citizens to desist from dumping waste in waterways.
Kanu further announced that Abia will join the global community in celebrating World Cleanup Day on September 25, with ASEPA partnering various groups to ensure a successful exercise.
Highlighting the government’s infrastructure agenda, he revealed that six new roads will soon be commissioned, bringing the total number of commissioned road projects under Governor Alex Otti’s administration to 39. These include the Umuahia–Uzuakoli–Akara–Ohafia Road, Port Harcourt Road, and Ohanko Road, among others.
He clarified the distinction between commissioned road projects and direct labour works, noting that while 52 direct labour projects were undertaken recently, six have been completed and two new ones added, including Kenahia Avenue and Oumuelenia Spa Road in Umuahia. Completed works include the construction of Obunamiri Drive in Ehimira Station, the Northern Approach to Muli Bridge in Ohafia, and the asphalt overlay of Abiriba Road.
Currently, 30 additional roads are under contract, with contractors making steady progress despite heavy rains.
On healthcare, Kanu announced that the recruitment of health workers is advancing smoothly. Out of 2,035 applications received, 1,752 were shortlisted, with 1,404 applicants completing the CBT assessment in two batches. Interviews for successful candidates are ongoing.
He also disclosed that the government has reintroduced sanitary inspection services as part of its Keep Abia Clean initiative, officially launched in August 2025. So far, inspectors have visited 4,500 premises across 85 communities. They have been directed to enforce only established environmental fines and avoid extortion.
“Sanitary inspectors are not out to cause pain for Abians but to ensure a clean, healthy environment for all,” Kanu emphasized.
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