In a strategic initiative to ensure high-quality engineering and building projects, the Abia State Government (ABSG) has officially delivered and installed its material testing laboratory in Umuahia.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, on Monday while briefing the press at Government House, Umuahia, on the outcomes of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Prince Kanu recalled that the state had earlier disclosed plans to establish a materials testing lab. “We are happy to announce that the laboratory is fully installed and operational. It has the capacity for Concrete Testing, Soil Testing, Aggregate Testing, Asphalt Flexible Pavement Testing, Steel Reinforcement Testing, Non-Destructive Testing, and Field Testing, among other capabilities. The installation of this lab will ensure very high-quality engineering and building projects across the state,” he stated.
He further revealed that plans to revitalise Abia Hotel Limited, Umuahia have reached an advanced stage. “The recovery process is progressing well, and further details will be shared in due course. Under the watch of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, no government asset will be allowed to waste or be misappropriated as was the case in the past,” Prince Kanu added.
The Commissioner also updated that the Abia TechRise ICT Training Cohort 2 is set to commence soon. Verification of the 850 applicants has concluded across the local government areas, with training scheduled to start on September 25, 2025. The program aims to equip youth with ICT skills, preparing them for relevance in the 21st century.
In line with the Food Security Program, the State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs is collaborating with 17 Local Government Councils on its Agricultural Intervention Project. “Beyond providing food for citizens, this initiative will create employment and empowerment opportunities for Abians,” Prince Kanu stated.
He added that four prototype markets will be constructed across the LGAs, featuring 40 local stalls with solar-powered lights, mobile facilities, public conveniences, and phone charging stations. Construction is set to begin within a fortnight and will be carried out in phases.
Prince Kanu further announced that the Abia Soccer Fest is ongoing across all 17 LGAs. Additionally, the State Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation will host the International Leaders’ Summit from September 22 to 25, 2025, aimed at strengthening collaboration with entrepreneurs in the leather subsector and enhancing the quality of their products for export.
The press briefing was attended by Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, and Mr. Kingsley Agomuo, General Manager of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority.
📩 Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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