ACIU DELEGATION SECURES GOVERNOR OTTI’S COMMITMENTS ON POWER, EROSION, AND AKAHABA GENERAL HOSPITAL

The Abiriba Communal Improvement Union (ACIU) Worldwide, under the leadership of President General Chief Yuccee Ottah Uwah (Ike Abiriba), has successfully obtained firm commitments from the Abia State Government to tackle longstanding challenges in the Ancient Kingdom, including electricity shortages, erosion, and the revitalization of Akahaba General Hospital.

The assurances came during a strategic courtesy visit to Governor Dr. Alex Otti (OFR) at the Government House, Umuahia, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

The ACIU executives and stakeholders presented detailed reports highlighting the critical infrastructure and social challenges facing Abiriba.

Chief Uwah emphasized that while recent road projects, including the Umuahia-Abiriba road, have boosted connectivity, reliable electricity remains a major barrier to economic growth.

Governor Otti responded positively, announcing that a permanent structure is being put in place to resolve Abiriba’s power challenges, benefiting the wider Abia North region.

The ACIU presented evidence of rampaging erosion sites at Ogbu Agbokere Umueso, Uzo Nde Okoronta, and Agboji, which threaten lives and property.

The Governor directed the Ministry of Environment and other relevant agencies to take immediate action at the identified flashpoints.

Governor Otti confirmed that the hospital’s new design has been finalized and approved, with construction to commence shortly to restore the facility as a healthcare centre of excellence.

In a move to promote local investment, Governor Otti revealed that the Star Paper Mill, previously owned by the late Chief Nnanna Kalu and recently re-acquired by the state from AMCON, will be handed over to capable Abiriba investors, prioritizing local entrepreneurs over foreign interests.

Chief Uwah also briefed the Governor on the outcome of the ACIU Diaspora meeting, assuring that Abiriba sons and daughters abroad are mobilizing resources to establish factories and support local development.Former SSG and stakeholder, Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa, commended the Governor’s swift action, noting that “two years of this administration have achieved what previous governments could not in 24 years,” citing efficiency in civil service operations and seamless land title processing as evidence of a working government.

The ACIU delegation included Chief Uwah, Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa, Rtn. George Ezikpe Okiyi, Hon. Nmaju Ukaku Ojebe, Adaena Saint Racheal Ngozi Mang, Jimmy Anyanso Ireke, Hon. Okoro Okeke, Mr. Dike Agwu Uche, Elder Ogburu Eni Kalu, Prince Nwabueze Ndukwo Ogbuewu, Chief Frank Ojah, Arc. Ndukwe Iwo Ndukwe, High Chief Sunny Obasi, Mr. Olere Ogbu Olere, Adaena Ukanwa Onuma, Chief Eme Kalu, and Chief Shaka Obasi.

The visit underscores a strong partnership between Abiriba communities and the Abia State Government, signaling a renewed focus on infrastructure, healthcare, and local economic development.