The World Bank has raised concerns over the limited housing available to the growing population of Ohafia, a town in Abia State, Nigeria.

With only 21,000 housing units available for over 300,000 residents, the World Bank has highlighted a significant gap in accommodation that needs immediate attention.

During the recent Ohafia Dialogue organized by the Mben Political Assembly at Amaekpu Ohafia, Dr. Nkem Palmer, a Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist at the World Bank, underscored the urgency of addressing the town?s housing crisis. Dr. Palmer noted that Ohafia?s population continues to grow as people from diverse backgrounds settle in the town, further straining available housing and infrastructure.

Abia Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu echoed the need for development and emphasized the government?s commitment to improving amenities across the state. Addressing a separate issue of power disruptions caused by the vandalism of installations along the Itu-Ututu-Ihie-Ohafia 33KVA line, Emetu applauded the recent ban on metal scavenging, noting that this ban aims to curb criminal activities linked to infrastructure theft.

Emetu also acknowledged the efforts of local representatives and traditional leaders. He praised Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa for drawing federal attention to Ohafia?s electricity challenges and highlighted Governor Alex Otti?s initiatives to boost power supply in Abia North through the 141 MW Aba Integrated Power Project.

Furthering efforts to enhance development, Governor Otti recently approved the establishment of the Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA), which aims to fast-track progress in Ohafia and surrounding areas. Additionally, Emetu announced that Ohafia has been selected as one of six communities to host an Abia State Cocoa estate, supporting economic diversification in the region.

Speaking at the dialogue, Michael Kalu Mba, National President of the Mben Political Assembly, affirmed the assembly?s dedication to Ohafia?s development, urging residents to rally behind Governor Otti?s administration. Also present, Prince Uma Agbai Olugu, the Udumeze of Ohafia and Chairman of the Ohafia Council of Monarchs, commended the assembly?s commitment to fostering unity and urged local leaders to work cooperatively for Ohafia?s growth.

With World Bank support, Abia State leadership, and collaboration among community members, Ohafia?s housing, infrastructure, and development issues may finally receive the critical attention they urgently require. (Vanguard)