…Calls for transparency, people-centred implementation of ABSIID
The African Centre for Human Advancement and Resource Support (CHARS-Africa), a civil society organisation, has commended Governor Alex Otti for the bold and strategic steps outlined in the Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development (ABSIID) project, which was launched on July 11, 2025.
ABSIID would accelerate the development of robust waste management infrastructure in addition to road and mitigation of gully erosion in the state
The initiative according to CHARS-Africa signals a new era of coordinated and multi-sectoral development, driven by global best practices and strengthened, by impactful partnerships, with respected multilateral institutions, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the Canada-Africa Development Bank Climate Fund (CACF).
From a civil society standpoint, CHARS-Africa notes with interest the shift from a narrow urban development focus to an integrated model encompassing infrastructure rehabilitation, erosion control, and waste management systems.
“This re-definition is not only visionary, but essential, considering the existential threats posed by climate-induced gully erosion in rural communities, and the pervasive health and environmental risks associated with poor waste disposal systems across Abia,” it said.
The group in a statement, signed by Amaka Biachi, its executive director, applauded the efforts of the Otti-led administration to rebuild investor confidence and restore public trust, through fiscal management, enhanced transparency, and deliberate prioritization of projects that support economic productivity and social well-being.
While celebrating the developmental vision captured in the Governor’s remarks, CHARS-Africa, urged that implementation of ABSIID must not be urban-centric, noting that marginalised communities, rural dwellers, women, youth and persons living with disabilities must be active participants and beneficiaries of the projects.
They observed that development cannot succeed when imposed from above and called on the State Government to institutionalise participatory frameworks (Community Charter of Demand), where community members can influence decision-making, monitor project execution, and report concerns without fear of repression.
CHARS-Africa urged the government to publish quarterly progress reports on ABSIID, including disbursements received, procurement processes followed, project milestones met, and setbacks encountered.
“Projects, such as road expansion and waste infrastructure must comply with environmental protection laws and ensure no community is displaced without due process and full compensation,” it further stated.
To protect the initiative against corruption, CHARS-Africa advocated for the setting up of a multi-stakeholder oversight panel, including representatives from civil society, professional associations, and religious groups, to ensure procurement integrity, value-for-money auditing, and independent project evaluation.
They called on well-meaning groups and individuals to support the programme, by monitoring, and if necessary, resist any deviation from the path charted on July 11, 2025.
“CHARS-Africa will continue to work with citizens, partners, and institutions to ensure that the Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development Project, becomes not just a political promise, but a true people’s triumph.
“Development without justice, inclusion and accountability is only a facade. We must ensure it truly works for the people,” the group further stated.
