The Abia State government has announced the commencement of a 10,000-barrel-per-day modular refinery at the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP) in Owaza, Ukwa West LGA, following federal approval. Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu confirmed the project, part of the state’s industrial push, will break ground in May after completing land compensation and site preparations. The refinery aims to bolster the oil-rich Ukwa region’s economic profile while addressing energy needs through partnerships with NNPC Port Harcourt Refinery and NNPC Retail to stabilize fuel supply, leveraging the reactivated Osisioma depot.
Simultaneously, the state is diversifying its economy by commissioning a statewide survey of solid mineral deposits—including limestone, kaolin, and granite—to assess commercial viability and attract investment. Kanu highlighted Abia’s participation in the June 2025 UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn, Germany, as a step toward integrating climate resilience into development plans.
In transport policy, the deadline for mandatory commercial vehicle registration has been extended to June 1, 2025, to ensure broader compliance. Infrastructure development remains a priority, with 67 active road projects: 36 under direct labor and 31 contractor-managed. Recent launches include the Bende–Idima–Abam Road, Ariaria–Timber Market Road in Aba, and the dualization of Obuaku–Industrial City Road in Ukwa West.
