Security, Business to Improve as Akobundu Extends Solar Streetlight Project Across Abia Central

Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District, Augustine O. Akobundu, has formally commenced the second phase of his solar-powered streetlight installation project across the six local government areas of the senatorial district.

Speaking to newsmen during the official flag-off ceremony held at his liaison office in Umuahia on Wednesday, the senator said the initiative, tagged “Light Up the Communities,” was designed to improve security, boost commercial activities, and enhance the living conditions of residents across Abia Central.

Akobundu noted that the successful completion of the first phase of the project, coupled with positive feedback from beneficiaries, motivated the expansion of the initiative to more communities and markets within the district.

He recalled that despite skepticism from political opponents at the inception of the project, the first phase was completed successfully and within schedule, adding that the installed solar-powered streetlights have since improved security, beautified communities, and increased business activities in several markets and public areas.

The senator listed markets and communities that benefited from the first phase to include Ariam Market and Ndoro Market in Ikwuano, Ahiaukwu Market in Olokoro, Apumiri Market in Ubakala, Obikabia Market in Isiala Ngwa North, Nkwo Nsulu Market, Nkwoebe Market, Mbutu Market, Ahiaeke Market, Afor Umuda Ofeme Market, Umungasi Market, Eke Nwobasi Market, St. Peter’s Church Amizi, Ekeobadi-Amadeus Road-Ahaba Village, Oloko Village, and Awomukwu Village.

According to him, the second phase will cover eleven additional markets, including Ahia Orie Umuode and Eke Onu Amaedo in Osisioma Ngwa, Mbawsi Main Market and Umuosu Market in Isiala Ngwa North, Ahia Ugba Daily Market and Nkwoudara Market in Isiala Ngwa South, Timber Market in Umuahia North, Afor-Ibeji Market and Eke Udi Market in Umuahia South, as well as Ahia Orie Ibere and Nnono Market in Ikwuano.

He further disclosed that thirteen more communities, including Trademore Estate in Umuahia, Seat of Wisdom Seminary School, Ariam, Azuiyi Oloko Community, and several communities in Ikwuano and Ntigha, would benefit from the ongoing phase of the project.

Akobundu stressed that beyond improving aesthetics, the project would significantly strengthen security, stimulate local businesses, and improve the welfare of residents, noting that testimonies from beneficiaries of the first phase had been encouraging.

The senator also highlighted several ongoing constituency projects across the senatorial district, including the construction and furnishing of skills acquisition centres, market renovations, school rehabilitation, provision of transformers, erosion control projects, healthcare centre construction, and waste recycling initiatives.

On healthcare and youth empowerment, Akobundu revealed that his recent medical outreach programme covered Ikwuano, Osisioma Ngwa, and Umuahia North LGAs, while the second phase would extend to Isiala Ngwa North, Isiala Ngwa South, and Umuahia South.

He added that over the years, he has sponsored numerous training and empowerment programmes targeted at youths and women in ICT, manufacturing, agriculture, cosmetology, cybersecurity, software development, and other vocational sectors.

Among the interventions listed were the sponsorship of 113 constituents on full scholarships to the National Teachers’ Institute, ICT and AI training for over 400 secondary school students, vocational training for hundreds of youths, scholarships and bursaries for students in higher institutions, and peace and conflict management programmes for traditional rulers and community leaders.

Akobundu also disclosed that several road projects attracted through his office are currently ongoing across Abia Central.

Reaffirming his commitment to sustainable development, the senator said his focus remains on building a better future for both the present and next generation, despite distractions from political opponents.
“This is just the beginning. Expect more,” he declared.