The Abia State Government has announced the reopening of the Lokpanta and Uzuakoli abattoirs, previously closed due to unsanitary conditions, following extensive renovations to improve hygiene and compliance with environmental standards. The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a Monday briefing on the outcomes of the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
Kanu highlighted the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency‘s (ASEPA) efforts to enhance waste management across the state. ASEPA has initiated door-to-door waste collection in parts of Umuahia and Aba, alongside street-to-street refuse collection in Abia North, as part of the Clean Up Abia Initiative. These measures aim to maintain cleanliness in urban and rural areas, building on ASEPA’s recognition by the United Nations Habitat for its waste management achievements.
ASEPA’s General Manager, Ogbonnaya Okereke, raised concerns about the health risks posed by roasting meat with tire flames, a practice that imparts an unwholesome taste and introduces harmful chemicals. To address this, the state is advancing plans to convert cow dung into biogas at the Lokpanta Regional Cattle Market and Uzuakoli abattoirs. This eco-friendly initiative, currently in advanced discussions with experts, will provide a safer alternative for processing meat and hides, with implementation expected to begin within a month.
In other developments, the Abia State Government congratulated the Abia Warriors Football Club of Umuahia for securing a historic CAF continental ticket for the next season. The achievement was celebrated as a milestone for sports development in the state.
On a somber note, the government announced that the late Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Sunny Onwuma, who passed away on March 3, 2025, after a brief illness, will be laid to rest on Thursday, May 15, 2025. The state extended its condolences to Onwuma’s family and community, praying for their strength during this period of loss.
These initiatives and announcements reflect Abia State’s commitment to improving public health, environmental sustainability, and community pride under Governor Alex Otti’s leadership.
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