Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving public safety through infrastructural development, describing street lighting as a strategic tool for combating insecurity and promoting socio-economic activities in the state.
Speaking while inspecting ongoing projects under the “Light Up Abia” initiative, Governor Otti stated that the installation of solar-powered street lights across key cities in the state is already yielding positive results in curbing crime and creating safer environments for residents. According to the Governor, “Security is not just about the presence of law enforcement agents; it also involves creating conditions that discourage crime, and adequate lighting is one of the most effective ways to achieve that.”
The Governor noted that since the launch of the street lighting project, over 4,500 high-intensity solar lights have been deployed across 74 strategic locations in Umuahia, Aba, Ohafia, and other parts of the state. The lights are designed to run efficiently throughout the night, especially in previously dark and crime-prone areas.
Traders and residents in Aba and Umuahia have welcomed the development, reporting increased confidence to conduct business late into the evening. The improved lighting, they say, has not only boosted commercial activity but has also enhanced community policing and emergency response by security operatives.
Security officials in the state confirmed that the street lighting has significantly improved night patrol visibility and reduced incidents of theft, assault, and vandalism in previously dark corridors. “The lights are helping us cover more ground and respond faster to distress calls,” said one senior police officer in Umuahia.
In a related development, Governor Otti revealed that the 45-kilometre Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Akara-Alayi-Abiriba road—recently completed and scheduled for commissioning—is also being fitted with solar-powered lights to enhance its security and utility. The road, which connects several communities and economic zones, is expected to ease transportation challenges and stimulate rural commerce.
Governor Otti stressed that the initiative is not merely about beautification but about building a secure and enabling environment that supports livelihoods, attracts investment, and guarantees peace of mind for citizens.
The Abia State Government has pledged to expand the street lighting project to more rural areas in the coming months, assuring residents that the safety and well-being of the people remain a top priority of the administration.
