Abia Govt Partners International Solar Alliance on Mini-Grid Regulations, Cleans Up Flood-Prone Areas

Published on 19 August 2025 at 21:44

The Abia State Government (ABSG) has announced a strategic partnership with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to develop regulations guiding the operation of mini-grids across the state, in line with its ambitious energy reform agenda.

The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this during a press briefing at Government House, Umuahia, following this week’s State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.

According to him, the collaboration with ISA—an intergovernmental organization of 123 member nations—is part of Abia’s broader plan to play a leading role in Nigeria’s power sector by attracting private investments and scaling renewable energy solutions.

“This collaboration will enable ISA to support the government in building a thriving solar power environment that sustains projects, attracts investors, and mitigates climate change,” Kanu said.

With the signing of the Abia State Electricity Law 2025, the government is now positioned to fully explore opportunities across the electricity value chain. Prince Kanu revealed that Abia is already participating in the Distributed Access to Renewable Energy Scale-Up (DARES) Project—a $750 million World Bank renewable energy programme that promises to boost electricity access and industrial growth in the state.

Environmental & Flood Control Efforts

On sanitation, the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) has deployed 2.7-tonne receptacles in Aba and Umuahia. The smaller bins, officials said, are easier to navigate through narrow streets. ASEPA has also begun clearing blocked waterways and drainages in Umuahia, particularly from Afara through Isialangwa, to prevent flooding during the rainy season.

“Predictions show some areas are prone to flooding. We are opening blocked drainages to reduce the risk and protect lives and property,” Kanu stated.

Health Recruitment & Governance Updates

Prince Kanu further revealed that 1,983 people applied for the ongoing health sector recruitment, with 1,348 shortlisted so far. Computer-Based Tests (CBT) will run from August 26–30, 2025, followed by interviews between September 2–16, 2025.

The Civil Service Commission has also advertised vacancies for contract consultants, primary consultants, and medical officers, with applications closing on August 30, 2025.

In another development, the State Government appointed Dr. Friday Kanu Ohuche, a seasoned development economist, as Chief Economic Adviser. He will lead the newly inaugurated Abia State Economic Management Team under Governor Otti’s supervision.

Kanu also warned against the spread of deliberate falsehoods about government activities, stressing that while the administration welcomes constructive criticism, it will “no longer tolerate calculated misinformation” and will seek redress under the law.


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