Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District, Austin Akobundu, has announced a fresh rollout of massive constituency projects, including the installation of solar-powered streetlights in over 10 markets and thirteen communities across the district under his “Light Up the Communities” Initiative.
Akobundu made the announcement during a press conference held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, where he reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare and development of the people of Abia Central.
The Senator explained that the second phase of the solar-powered streetlight initiative was inspired by the positive impact and widespread commendations received from residents following the successful completion of the first phase, which covered over 15 communities and markets across the senatorial zone.
According to him, beneficiaries of the first phase included Ariam Market and Ndoro Market in Ikwuano, Ahiaukwu Market in Olokoro and Apumiri Market in Ubakala, Umuahia South, Obikabia Market and Nkwo Nsulu Market in Isiala Ngwa North, Nkwoebe Market and Mbutu Market in Isiala Ngwa South, Ahiaeke Market in Umuahia North, Afor Umuda Ofeme Market in Ohuhu, Umuahia North, as well as Umungasi Market and Eke Nwobasi Market in Osisioma Ngwa.
Other locations covered in the first phase included St. Peter’s School Amizi, Ekebedi-Amadeus Road-Amizi Village, Oloko Village and Awomukwu Village.
Announcing the second phase beneficiaries, Senator Akobundu listed Ahia Orie Umuode and Eke Onu Amaedo in Osisioma LGA, 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 in Old Umuahia, Eke Udi Market in Umuopara, as well as Ahia Orie Ibere and Nnono Market in Oboro, Ikwuano.
He further disclosed that thirteen additional communities, including Umuokwa Community in Isiala Amapu Ntigha, Eziama Ntigha, Trademoore Estate in Umuahia, Seat of Wisdom Seminary School, Ariam, Azuiyi Oloko Community and others across the district, had also been earmarked for the installation exercise.
Speaking on the importance of the initiative, Akobundu said the project was designed to improve security, boost economic activities and enhance the overall welfare of residents.
“It is my sincerest belief that lighting up these markets and communities will not only add to their aesthetics, greatly enhance their security and substantially boost businesses, but it will also have a direct and telling impact on their overall welfare. Gladly, the testimonies have been rolling in since we concluded the first phase,” he stated.
The lawmaker also recalled that the first phase initially attracted skepticism from political opponents who doubted his ability to complete the project.
“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, too,” he added.
Senator Akobundu equally highlighted several ongoing projects attracted across Abia Central Senatorial District, including the construction and furnishing of skills acquisition centres, market renovations and lock-up stores, renovation and fencing of schools, provision of transformers, erosion control projects, construction of primary healthcare centres and waste recycling facilities.
He also referenced his recent medical outreach programme which covered Ikwuano, Osisioma Ngwa and Umuahia North LGAs, while assuring that the second phase would soon extend to Isiala Ngwa North, Isiala Ngwa South and Umuahia South.
On youth and women empowerment, the Senator said his administration remained committed to building human capacity through scholarships, ICT training, vocational empowerment and entrepreneurship programmes.
Among the initiatives highlighted were the sponsorship of 113 constituents on full three-year scholarships to the National Teachers’ Institute, scholarships and bursaries for students in higher institutions, free embedded systems engineering, robotics and AI training for over 400 secondary school students, as well as vocational training programmes in sewing, farming, cosmetology and paint making.
He further revealed that over 360 youths had also benefited from trainings in UI/UX Design, Web Design, Cyber Security, Digital Marketing, Software Development, Forex Trading and Data Science.
Akobundu noted that several road projects facilitated by his office were also ongoing across the senatorial district, stressing that his focus remained on quality representation and impactful governance.
While thanking the people of Abia Central for their support and cooperation, the Senator assured them of more developmental projects and empowerment programmes.
“This is just the beginning! Expect more,” he concluded.
