The Abia State Government has officially classified the unlawful removal of manhole covers across various locations in the region as a criminal offence, warning perpetrators of impending prosecution.
Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, made this disclosure on Monday while briefing journalists at the Government House in Umuahia regarding the decisions reached during the State Executive Council meeting. Mr Kanu emphasized that the dangerous practice severely threatens public safety and assured that anyone apprehended in connection with the theft of these protective fittings will face the full weight of the law.
According to the commissioner, the Ministry of Works has successfully mounted reinforced concrete slabs over 120 open manholes and drainage channels spanning major commercial hubs including Aba and Umuahia. However, he expressed disappointment that recalcitrant individuals continue to strip away these safety barriers despite ongoing government interventions to safeguard public infrastructure.
What directives were issued regarding road infrastructure?
Aside from tackling manhole theft, the commissioner cautioned residents against the arbitrary erection of speed bumps on public thoroughfares. He explained that improperly constructed bumps accelerate the degradation of asphalt and concrete surfaces. Communities planning to install such structures have been directed to secure prior authorization from the Ministry of Works to guarantee adherence to certified engineering standards.
When is Abia hosting the upcoming international events?
Transitioning to economic engagements, Mr Kanu revealed that the state is set to host the 27th Africando Conference from 17 November to 19 November. The international gathering is designed to link local entrepreneurs and corporate bodies with prospective foreign investors.
Promoted by the Foundation for Democracy in Africa alongside the Abia Global Chamber of Commerce, the summit will draw delegates and investors from the United States and other foreign nations. Ministries, departments, agencies, and local government councils in the state are expected to utilize the platform to exhibit diverse economic potentials available within the region.
Organisers anticipate that the conference will galvanize economic activities, yielding commercial dividends for hospitality businesses, transport operators, and ancillary service providers.
Furthermore, the commissioner confirmed that the third edition of the Abia International Trade Fair will run from 27 November to 6 December at the Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic located in Aba. Spearheaded by the state Ministry of Trade and Commerce in partnership with the Aba Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, the exhibition will spotlight manufacturing, agriculture, fashion, leather production, and renewable energy under the banner “Abia Beyond Borders: Driving Innovation, Trade and Industrial Growth”.
What capacity-building initiatives are underway for civil servants?
In a bid to enhance administrative efficiency, the Abia State Civil Service Commission is scheduled to conduct an extensive capacity-building workshop for permanent secretaries, directors, and deputy directors spanning 16 November to 28 November.
Mr Kanu noted that the training curriculum will address critical areas such as change management, institutional work ethics, professionalism, succession planning, talent administration, strategic leadership, and management. He reiterated that the educational initiative forms an integral component of broader administrative reforms designed to optimize productivity and public service delivery across the state apparatus.