RismadarVoice Reporters
March 25, 2026
The Abia State Government has announced plans to hold a state burial service in honour of late cleric, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, in recognition of his contributions to Christianity and society.
Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held on Monday at Government House, Umuahia.
He said the burial service is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, at 10:00 a.m.
Kanu described the late preacher as “a devoted ambassador of Christ whose ministerial exploits brought honour and recognition to Abia State and beyond.”
In a related development, former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, called on the state government to immortalise the late cleric, describing him as a “spiritual icon” whose impact transcended the pulpit.
Meanwhile, the State Executive Council approved the installation of speed bumps on selected roads across Umuahia to curb over-speeding and reduce the risk of accidents, especially on newly constructed and rehabilitated roads.
The government also approved funds to fast-track ongoing infrastructure and urban beautification projects, including tree planting, landscaping of public spaces, installation of road signs, and painting of curbs along major routes such as Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard, Library Avenue, and the corridor from Shoprite through Aba Park.
Kanu further disclosed that work is progressing at the Afara Relief Market, with perimeter fencing completed and compensation paid to affected persons.
On road infrastructure, the Umuahia Capital Development Authority is set to commence rehabilitation of internal roads within the Methodist Theological Institute, while other projects include the construction and rehabilitation of key roads such as Umuokoro Road, New Heaven Junction to Isi-Court Road, Uzzi Ossah Road, and Mgbarakuma Nsirimo Road.
The Council also approved the establishment of the Greater Ohafia Development Authority to complement existing development agencies and expand urban renewal efforts to Ohafia and surrounding communities.
According to the Commissioner, several road projects are ongoing across the state, with some already completed under direct labour, while others are at various stages of execution.
