Sen Akobundu Begins New Phase of Market Construction, Delivers Solar Streetlights To Communities
The Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District, Austin Akobundu, has announced a fresh phase of constituency projects, including the installation of solar-powered streetlights in more than 10 markets and 13 communities across the district under his Light Up the Communities initiative.
Addressing journalists during a press conference in Umuahia, Akobundu reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare and development of the people of Abia Central, stressing that the positive impact recorded during the first phase of the project inspired the expansion.
According to the lawmaker, the first phase of the initiative covered over 15 markets and communities across the six local government areas in the district and received commendations from residents for improving security, business activities and the general outlook of the benefiting areas.
Markets and communities that benefitted from the first phase include Ariam Market and Ndoro Market in Ikwuano, Ahiaukwu Market in Olokoro and Apumiri Market in Ubakala, both in Umuahia South, Obikabia Market and Nkwo Nsulu Market in Isiala Ngwa North, Nkwoebe Market and Mbutu Market in Isiala Ngwa South, Ahiaeke Market and Afor Umuda Ofeme Market in Umuahia North, as well as Umungasi Market and Eke Nwobasi Market in Osisioma Ngwa.
Other beneficiaries included St Peter’s School, Amizi, Ekebedi-Amadeus Road in Amizi Village, Oloko Village and Awomukwu Village.
Announcing the second phase of the project, Akobundu disclosed that additional markets selected for the installation of solar-powered streetlights include 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 revealed that 13 communities, including Umuokwa Community in Isiala Amapu Ntigha, Eziama Ntigha, Trademoore Estate in Umuahia, Seat of Wisdom Seminary School, Ariam and Azuiyi Oloko Community, would also benefit from the latest phase.
Akobundu said the initiative was aimed at improving security, boosting economic activities and enhancing the welfare of residents.
“It is my sincerest belief that lighting up these markets and communities will not only add to their aesthetics, or enhance their security and substantially boost businesses, but it will also have a direct and telling impact on their overall welfare”, he stated.
The senator also reacted to criticisms that trailed the commencement of the first phase, noting that despite doubts from political opponents, the project was completed successfully and on schedule.
“I recall that when we started the first phase of the project, some of our political rivals expressed doubts about our tenacity to commence and our determination to finish. I am glad to report to you today that not only did we commence as scheduled, we also finished as specified and in record time”, he added.
Beyond the streetlight project, Akobundu highlighted several ongoing constituency interventions across the senatorial district, including the construction and furnishing of skills acquisition centres, market renovations, school fencing and rehabilitation, provision of transformers, erosion control projects, establishment of Primary Health Care Centres and waste recycling facilities.
He also recalled the success of his recent medical outreach programme which covered Ikwuano, Osisioma Ngwa and Umuahia North LGAs, adding that another phase would soon extend to Isiala Ngwa North, Isiala Ngwa South and Umuahia South LGAs.
The senator further highlighted a series of youth and women empowerment programmes undertaken by his office, including scholarships, ICT training, robotics and AI programmes for secondary school students, vocational empowerment initiatives and digital skills development for hundreds of youths across the district.
Among the initiatives listed were the sponsorship of 113 constituents on a three-year scholarship at the National Teachers’ Institute, scholarships and bursaries for students in higher institutions, ICT and embedded systems training for over 400 secondary school students, and vocational training programmes in sewing, cosmetology, farming and paint making.
Akobundu also disclosed that over 360 youths had been trained in UI/UX design, web design, cybersecurity, software development, digital marketing, forex trading and data science.
On infrastructure, he said several road projects facilitated through his office were currently ongoing in different parts of Abia Central.
While thanking constituents for their support and cooperation, the senator assured them of continued quality representation and people-oriented projects.
