Governor Otti Performs Groundbreaking for FHA Estate in Umuahia, Commends Tinubu

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has performed the groundbreaking ceremony for a 1,200-unit Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Renewed Hope Housing Estate in Umuahia, the state capital.

The project, a collaboration between the Federal Government through the FHA and the Abia State Government, is designed to expand access to affordable housing. With the initiative, Abia becomes the first state in the South-East and among the first five nationwide to partner with the Federal Government on the programme.

Speaking at the ceremony held along the Ubani–Uzuakoli Road in Umuahia North Local Government Area, Governor Otti said the project followed earlier engagements with the FHA leadership, who approached the state with the proposal while his administration was already exploring housing solutions for residents.

He expressed appreciation to the FHA and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating the Renewed Hope Housing programme. The governor noted that his administration remains committed to partnerships that improve the welfare and living standards of the people, stressing that governance should focus on development rather than political, ethnic, or religious differences.

Governor Otti also disclosed that all verified landowners who contributed about 100 hectares for the project have been compensated. He explained that over 800 of the nearly 900 claimants have received full payment, while outstanding cases are linked to documentation or ownership disputes, urging affected individuals to resolve such issues promptly.

In their goodwill messages, stakeholders including Hon. Obi Aguocha, Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Augustine Meregini, and Federal Character Commissioner Chief Victor Ikeji described the project as a long-awaited development, noting that it comes after nearly two decades of delay.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the FHA, Hon. Oyetunde Oladimeji Ojo, said the project reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering housing across the country. He commended Governor Otti for his leadership and support, noting visible improvements in infrastructure and urban development across the state, particularly in Aba.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Housing, Architect Chiemela Uzoije, and the Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, highlighted the significance of the project in addressing housing deficits and driving development along the corridor.

On behalf of the host communities, Hon. Ugochukwu Ibe expressed gratitude to both the Federal and State Governments and expressed optimism for the timely completion of the project.

The event was attended by top government officials, lawmakers, traditional rulers, clergy, and other stakeholders.