Former Senate President, Chief Adolphus Wabara, has praised Governor Alex Otti for the proposed Azumini Blue River seaport in Ukwa East and the ongoing remodeling of Ariaria International Market in Aba.
Wabara said both projects could reshape Abia’s economy and the South‑East region.
He signed a statement from his hometown of Ukwa on Sunday, May 24, 2026, endorsing the seaport proposal as an ambitious economic intervention and saying the plan could open a new trade corridor for Abia State and ease pressure on existing Nigerian ports.
“If successfully realised, the project will undoubtedly open a new economic corridor for Abia State, decongest existing ports, attract massive investments, stimulate industrialisation and position Abia as a major gateway for regional and international trade,” he said.
Wabara, who is also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), added that the seaport would accelerate infrastructure development, improve logistics, generate jobs, and boost the South‑East economy.
He described the scheme as a strategic alternative to overburdened Gulf of Guinea ports and as a potential magnet for manufacturers and exporters.
Separately, Senator Wabara inspected the remodeled sections of Ariaria International Market and commended Otti for transforming the commercial hub. He compared the upgraded market environment to standards in London and other advanced trading centres.
“Having personally visited the remodelled Ariaria International Market in Aba, I must sincerely commend Governor Alex Otti for the remarkable transformation taking place in one of the most strategic commercial hubs in Nigeria and the West African sub‑region,” he said.
Wabara called the Ariaria work more than cosmetic. He described it as an “economic renaissance” that could restore Aba’s status as the industrial heartbeat of the South‑East and improve traders’ working conditions, hygiene, and logistics.
He urged the governor to finish the entire project without abandoning any section, warning that piecemeal work would undercut the market’s full potential.
Context and Significance
Azumini Blue River sits in Ukwa East Local Government Area, a riverside zone with potential for maritime access if dredging and quay construction proceed.
Plans for a regional seaport would require federal approvals, environmental assessments, and funding arrangements, including public‑private partnerships.
Ariaria Market is one of West Africa’s largest open‑air textile and shoe markets, long plagued by congestion, flooding, and poor infrastructure.
Upgrading it should reduce losses from fire and weather, formalise trade, and attract investment into local manufacturing.
Next, the technical feasibility reports, federal agency responses, environmental impact studies, and funding announcements for the Azumini project is being awaited.
Many will also be interested in knowing the completion timelines for Ariaria’s remaining phases and any trader relocation or compensation plans.
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