As part of the celebrations marking his first year in office, Senator Austin Akobundu has launched the installation of solar-powered street lights at key markets across the six Local Government Areas of Abia Central Senatorial District, Abia State.
Senator Akobundu was inaugurated on November 15, 2023, after being declared the rightful winner of the February 25, 2023, National Assembly election for Abia Central by the Appeal Court. Although he officially took office in late January due to the Christmas break following his inauguration, he has already initiated several empowerment programs for his constituents and has plans for more projects to commemorate his first anniversary in the Senate.
The “Light Up the Markets Initiative” is one of these key initiatives. To implement this project, the Senator has designated two major markets in each LGA of Abia Central Senatorial District. Last weekend, he kicked off the initiative with ceremonial launches at the bustling Apumiri Market in Ubakala, Umuahia South LGA, and the Obikabia Market in Isiala Ngwa North LGA. Street lights will also be installed simultaneously at other selected markets in the remaining LGAs.
During the events in Apumiri and Obikabia, Senator Akobundu reaffirmed his commitment to the progress and prosperity of his constituents. He explained that his decision to illuminate these markets would allow traders to extend their operating hours into the night, while enhancing security and improving the overall aesthetics of the areas.
Market women expressed their gratitude for the initiative, stating it would significantly boost their trading activities. Community leaders and traders presented him with gifts of yams, plantains, and palm oil as tokens of appreciation for his dedication to their welfare. They praised the Senator’s leadership qualities and offered prayers for his success, vowing their continued support and promising to protect the streetlights from vandalism to ensure they fulfill their intended purpose.
Among those accompanying Senator Akobundu were Hon. Dennis Rowland Chinwendu (Caesar), the Member representing Isiala Ngwa South State Constituency at the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Collins Ugochukwu Iheonunekwu (Ochake) from Isiala Ngwa North, Chief Peter Nwaokonko, Secretary of Abia State PDP, Hon. Prince Obinna Okey, a former Member representing Ikwuano State Constituency, Hon. Stanley Nwabuisi, along with other distinguished party members and former government officials.
