Abia State unveils 55 cultural heritage sites and plans to expand its electricity market after Governor Otti signs new power bill into law

The Abia State Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy has unveiled a list of 55 unique and viable cultural heritage sites spread across the state.

This announcement, made after Governor Alex Otti signed the Abia State Electricity bill into law on Monday, marks a significant step towards preserving the state’s rich history while boosting tourism potential.

During an Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Otti, the state’s Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, revealed the notable heritage sites, which include historically significant locations like the Ulochukwu Cave in Alayi, Bende Local Government Area, and the Ibom Water Falls in Arochukwu.

Other highlights include Mazi Okoroji’s Compound in Arochukwu and the Itubo Olokoro Magistrate Court in Ikwuano, where participants in the famous Aba Women Riot of 1929 were tried.

Kanu noted that these sites would soon be activated and preserved to reflect their historical importance and tourism potential. “These sites will, in due course, be activated and preserved for their historical significance and tourism potential,” Kanu stated, underscoring the state’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

In addition to the identification of cultural sites, the Abia State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, plans to revitalise the National War Museum and the Ojukwu Bunker, transforming these locations into world-class tourism destinations. This is part of a broader effort to promote tourism and preserve Abia’s historical legacy.

The signing of the Abia State Electricity bill also signifies a major milestone for the state’s power sector. Governor Otti expressed the state’s commitment to improving its electricity infrastructure, particularly by establishing the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency.

This will help extend electricity access to the remaining eight local government areas of the state, building on the success of the Aba Ring-fence with Geometric Power, which already covers nine LGAs.

Governor Otti commented, “This is a landmark document that will stand the test of time. It is designed to protect the investments of anyone interested in Abia’s power sector. It also includes provisions for renewable energy.”

The state is also focused on extending the Umuahia Ring-fence to cover additional areas, a key part of the governor’s plan to ensure comprehensive power coverage.

Furthermore, Otti expressed optimism that Abia’s power sector could eventually generate sufficient electricity not only for the state but also to support other parts of the South-East, creating additional revenue streams for the region.