The Abia State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) for the construction of an access road across the railway corridor in Umuahia, the state capital.
The agreement was signed when a delegation from the NRC, led by its Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa, visited the Abia State Governor at his office.
The proposed access road will link Okpara Square and Akanu Ibiam Street, popularly known as Goodshed, to Bende Road.
According to the state government, the project forms part of its broader plan to modernise Umuahia, ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity among major transport facilities in the capital.
The government said the integration of the railway station, bus terminal and other transport infrastructure is expected to transform Umuahia into a major transportation hub that will better serve residents and commuters.
The governor has directed the Commissioners for Transport and Works, as well as the General Manager of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), to commence work immediately and ensure the project is delivered without delay.
During the meeting, the governor also appealed to the NRC to consider expanding train services from Port Harcourt to Aba.
He assured the railway corporation of the state government’s support for stronger collaboration with the Federal Government, particularly in improving transportation and mobility across Abia State and the Southeast.
The state government described the agreement as another step towards developing a modern and better-connected Abia, with improved transportation infrastructure and easier movement of people and goods.
