The Abia State Government has announced its inclusion among six states set to benefit from the $700 million Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme funded by the World Bank.

Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.

According to Kanu, the development reflects increasing international recognition of the state’s governance reforms and ongoing transformation.

“Abia State is receiving this level of recognition and support globally because of the changes taking place across different sectors of governance,” he said, noting that multilateral financial institutions are now paying closer attention to the state.

He further revealed that the previously suspended USAID small-town WASH project has resumed under a new funding arrangement with Mercy Corps. Work is expected to continue on water supply schemes in Ubakala and Ariaria.

Providing updates on the power sector, Kanu said the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency has granted interim licences to three firms—New Era, Aba Power, and Geometric Power—as part of efforts to strengthen electricity supply across the state.

He described the initiative as a “half-year power restoration project,” adding that it is about 85 percent complete. He expressed optimism that full electricity supply would be restored to some areas, including Ohafia, before the end of the second quarter.

The commissioner also announced the launch of a 1.8-megawatt microgrid solar project aimed at powering central bus terminals in Umuahia and Aba. He said the project forms part of the state’s broader energy transition strategy.

In addition, Kanu confirmed key appointments, including Prof. Deka Chioma Okoropo as Chief Medical Director of Abia State University Teaching Hospital, and Dr. Nkiru Kachidia Maduwe as Project Coordinator for the NEWMAP initiative under the Ministry of Environment.

He also noted that Governor Otti, who marks three years in office this month, will observe the anniversary without elaborate celebrations.

“As has become the tradition of this administration, the third anniversary will not involve pomp and ceremony, but will instead focus on project flag-offs and commissioning,” Kanu said.

He added that the period would be used to inaugurate completed projects, launch new ones across the three senatorial zones, and review the progress of the administration’s development agenda.