The Abia State Government has approved the construction of multiple housing estates across the state, marking a significant step toward expanding access to affordable and decent housing for civil servants and other residents.
The approval, granted by the Abia State Executive Council, will be implemented through a combination of government-funded projects and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements.
Housing Projects to Commence in Umuahia
Following the approval, the State Ministry of Housing is set to flag off the construction of the Civil Service Commission Pocket-Layout Estate in Umuahia. Agreements have also been reached with private developers for the development of additional housing estates in strategic locations across the state.
The development was disclosed on Monday by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a post-Executive Council briefing at the Government House, Umuahia.
According to him, the housing initiative aligns with Governor Alex Chioma Otti’s commitment to improving the welfare and living standards of Abia residents.
“In line with the Governor’s vision to provide quality and affordable housing for Abians, the Ministry of Housing will soon flag off the Civil Service Commission Pocket-Layout Estate in Umuahia,” Prince Kanu said.
PPP Estates Planned for Mbaisi, Ubakala
Prince Kanu revealed that discussions are at an advanced stage with private developers under the PPP framework for proposed housing estates in Mbaisi and Mgbarakuma-Ubakala, Umuahia.
“The Ministry is on the verge of signing the necessary agreements for developers to move to the site without delay,” he added.
He noted that the estates would be developed across different parts of the state to promote balanced development while combining private-sector efficiency with strong government oversight.
Estate Not Exclusive to Civil Servants – Housing Commissioner
Providing further clarification, the Commissioner for Housing, Architect Chiemela Uzoije, explained that despite its name, the Civil Service Commission Pocket-Layout Estate is not exclusive to civil servants.
“It is for the generality of Abians. Civil servants are included, but the estate is open to everyone,” he said.
Architect Uzoije also disclosed that the state has already commenced similar housing projects, citing the ongoing site-and-services scheme at Obehie in Ukwa West, being developed in partnership with a private firm.
Under the arrangement, the developer provides infrastructure, after which plots will be allocated to individuals to build their homes.
The former Civil Service Commission premises in Umuahia will be transformed into a modern residential estate catering to medium-income earners and a segment of high-income residents.
The estate will feature a mix of housing types, including:
Blocks of flats
Semi-detached duplexes
Standard duplexes
According to Architect Uzoije, the project is designed to change the narrative in Abia’s housing sector, which he noted currently lacks fully functional and well-planned residential estates.
Jobs, Urban Renewal, Economic Growth
The Housing Commissioner emphasized that a mix of development models is being adopted to ensure sustainability, job creation, and timely delivery of the projects.
While the government will directly handle estates within major urban areas to maximize employment opportunities and economic impact, PPP projects will continue in other locations, with the government remaining actively involved in implementation and management.
Boost for Abia’s Development Agenda
The housing initiative is expected to improve access to decent accommodation, stimulate economic activities, drive urban renewal, and increase private-sector participation.
Overall, the programme reinforces Governor Alex Otti’s agenda to redefine public housing, promote inclusive growth, and entrench good governance in Abia State.
Anaenugwu Ndubuisi
Ambassador General, Good Governance Ministry
Email:ggovernanceministry@gmail.com
