7 - 9 April 2026Landmark Centre, Lagos, Nigeria

Industry News

AfDB, Partners Launch $264M Infrastructure Project in Southern Nigeria

The African Development Bank (AfDB), the Islamic Development Bank, Nigeria’s federal government, and Abia State have partnered to launch a $263.8 million project to modernize urban infrastructure in Umuahia and Aba. This five-year initiative, known as the Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development Project, aims to improve living conditions and urban resilience in the fast-growing cities.

The comprehensive plan includes the rehabilitation of 248 km of roads, the restoration of two critical erosion sites, and the implementation of a modern solid waste management system through public-private partnerships. The project is funded through a combination of loans and contributions, with the largest portions coming from the Islamic Development Bank ($125 million) and the AfDB ($115 million).

Beyond infrastructure, the project is designed to have a significant social impact. It is expected to create more than 3,000 temporary jobs during construction, with 30% reserved for women, and 1,000 permanent roles after completion, half of which will be for local youth. This model reflects a broader strategy to ensure urban development is both inclusive and sustainable.