NEWS
Gov. Alex Otti Pledges Swift Launch of Aba Commercial Smart City Project, Confirms Revival of Historic Enyimba Hotel Development in Aba
In a major move signaling Aba’s transformation into a hub of modern commerce and hospitality, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, received a high-powered delegation of promoters and strategic partners of the proposed Aba Commercial Smart City Project at the Government House yesterday.
Governor Otti expressed his readiness to flag-off the ambitious urban development project, emphasizing that the commencement of physical work would precede the official ceremony, a hallmark of his administration’s commitment to ensuring projects translate into tangible results on the ground.
Stressing fiscal prudence and operational readiness, the Governor said he would only proceed once all requirements are met, including financial preparedness, noting that past experiences with projects left unfinished post-flag-off were unacceptable.
“Work must begin first, mobilization to site must happen for weeks or months before the ceremonial flag-off,” he stressed, signaling his zero-tolerance for delays.
While eager to see the Smart City project kick-off immediately, Governor Otti reassured stakeholders that additional time would be granted to ensure all partners are fully prepared, highlighting his administration’s strategic approach to sustainable development.
In a related announcement, the Governor confirmed the revival of the long-abandoned Enyimba Hotel Project at Ogbor Hill, Aba, which will be redeveloped as the city’s first-ever Five-Star hotel in partnership with global hospitality giant Radisson Blu.
He revealed that site work has already commenced, reviving a decades-old project initiated by the late Dr. Sam Mbakwe, former Governor of old Imo State, marking a significant milestone in Aba’s tourism and hospitality landscape.
Governor Otti was joined by key members of his cabinet and senior officials, including Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Bar. Ikechukwu Uwana (SAN); Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Dr. Mrs. Salome Obiukwu; and Director-General/CEO of the Public-Private-Partnership and Investment Promotion Office, Mr. Chinedum Chijioke, among other government appointees.
The Aba Commercial Smart City Project, once completed, is expected to redefine the city’s economic and commercial profile, creating modern business districts, employment opportunities, and setting a benchmark for urban development across Abia State.
With the Governor’s proactive oversight and commitment to ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, Aba’s transformation into a modern commercial hub appears set to gain unprece
dented momentum.