The African Development Bank (AFDB), in Partnership with the Islamic Development Bank and the Abia State government, launched a $263.8 million infrastructure project aimed at boosting urban infrastructure in the cities of Aba and Umuahia.
The Continental Bank announced the development in a press release outlining its partners in the Infrastructure project and other important details of the project.
The Infrastructure project, themed ” Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development Project, fixes critical infrastructure gaps in urban transport, erosion control, and waste management, which have long plagued the quality of life of inhabitants of the two cities.
” The African Development Bank is contributing $115 million to the project, including $100 million from its ADB window and $15 million from the Canada-AfDB Climate Fund (CACF). The Islamic Development Bank is co-financing with $125 million, while the Federal Government of Nigeria is providing $23.8 million in counterpart funding.
The project will rehabilitate more than 248 kilometers of roads in the cities of Umuahia and Aba, restore two erosion sites, and catalyze private sector investment in solid waste management through public-private partnerships. The statement read.
Speaking at the Launch of the project, Abia state governor, Alex Otti, stated that the project marks a key milestone in the state’s Urban Infrastructure renewal agenda. Otti explained that his administration is focused on raising living standards, expanding access to education and healthcare, and driving economic productivity.
He expressed warmth to his newfound partners, whom he believes are keyed into the same vision as the state’s administration.
More Jobs
The Infrastructure project is expected to create 3000 jobs during its construction phase and 1000 permanent jobs during its operational phase. Thirty percent of the jobs are reserved for women, while 50 percent of the permanent roles will go to the youth. Youth employment was factored into the initiative phase of the project, and selected youth will be trained through the State Youth Road Maintenance Corps.
The AFDB will provide technical support, capacity building, and close implementation supervision through its Nigeria Country Department and sector teams.
The Launch of the Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development Project highlights a key milestone in the bank’s commitment to contributing to the growth and development of Sub-Saharan African countries.
The Abia Government, earlier this month, partnered with UN-Habitat to propose a master plan for the city of Aba. The state also has an ongoing partnership with UNDP
