Abia, NRC Sign MoU for Umuahia Access Road, Integrated Transport Hub
Korede Abdullah 
Dr. Kayode Opeifa and Governor Alex Otti
ABIA, Nigeria – The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and the Abia State Government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the construction of an access road across the railway corridor in Umuahia as part of efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and urban connectivity.
The proposed road will connect Okpara Square through the Goodshed area and Akanu Ibiam Street to Bende Road, providing motorists with an alternative route and easing traffic congestion within the state capital.
Speaking during a meeting with Governor Alex Otti on Wednesday, NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, said the corporation approved the state’s request after it satisfied all regulatory requirements governing the use of railway corridors.
Opeifa praised the Abia State Government for following due process, describing the state as a responsible partner committed to infrastructure development.
He noted that the agreement demonstrates productive collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments, while highlighting the recently completed Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal as another major investment in the state’s transport sector.
The NRC boss also backed plans to integrate the railway station with the new bus terminal into a modern multimodal transport hub. He, however, requested the relocation of a police station within the affected corridor and asked the state government to submit detailed redevelopment plans for the railway station.
Governor Otti described the access road as part of his administration’s broader vision to transform Umuahia into a modern city with an efficient and integrated transport system.
“With the railway station, the bus terminal and other transport infrastructure located within the same area, Umuahia will evolve into a major transportation hub,” the governor said.
He directed relevant ministries and agencies to fast-track implementation of the project and also urged the NRC to increase train services along the Port Harcourt-Aba rail corridor.
Otti further disclosed that his administration was engaging neighbouring South-East states on plans to expand regional rail connectivity, while expressing appreciation to the NRC leadership and its South-East Regional Office for supporting the partnership.
Opeifa expressed confidence that the collaboration would significantly improve mobility, stimulate economic activities and strengthen transport infrastructure across Abia State.
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