Governor Alex Otti assures readiness to launch the Aba Commercial Smart City Project and confirms progress on the Radisson Blu Enyimba Hotel in Aba.
Abia State Governor, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the proposed Aba Commercial Smart City Project, assuring promoters and partners of the state’s readiness to commence the initiative once all conditions are fully met.
The assurance was given on Thursday, February 5, when Governor Otti received a delegation representing the project’s promoters and partners at his office. During the meeting, the governor emphasized that the project’s flag-off would only take place after tangible proof of financial readiness, stressing the importance of seeing “the colour of the money” before any formal launch.
Governor Otti explained that his administration prioritizes practical execution over ceremonial events, noting that contractors must first mobilize to site and demonstrate visible progress for weeks or even months before any official flag-off. He warned against situations where projects are launched with fanfare only to be abandoned shortly afterward.
While expressing his desire for the Aba Commercial Smart City Project to begin immediately, the governor said he was willing to grant the promoters additional time to ensure they are fully prepared, rather than rush into a premature commencement.
In a related development, Governor Otti disclosed that his administration would soon flag off the construction of the Enyimba Hotel, set to become the first-ever five-star hotel in Aba. The project is being developed through a partnership with Radisson Blu, a globally renowned hospitality brand.
He further revealed that Radisson Blu has already begun work at the site of the long-abandoned Enyimba Hotel project located at Ogbor Hill, Aba. The hotel project was originally initiated decades ago by the late Dr. Sam Mbakwe, former governor of the old Imo State, and had remained uncompleted until now.
The meeting was attended by key government officials, including the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Bar. Ikechukwu Uwana (SAN); the Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Dr. Mrs. Salome Obiukwu; and the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Public-Private Partnership and Investment Promotion Office, Mr. Chinedum Chijioke, alongside other senior government appointees.
The developments underscore the Abia State Government’s focus on sustainable infrastructure, credible partnerships, and economic revitalization, particularly in Aba, the state’s commercial hub.