Hausa Community Seeks Expanded Settlement, Better Infrastructure in Aba

The leader of the Hausa community in Aba, Sarki Bello Shehu II, has presented a list of challenges affecting Hausa traders and other members of the community to the Abia State Government, calling for urgent intervention to improve their living and business conditions.

Leading a delegation to the Abia State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Umuahia on Wednesday, Sarki Shehu appealed to the state government to develop a larger settlement along the Osioma axis to accommodate a central mosque, market, schools, and residential facilities for the growing Hausa population.

According to him, the increasing number of worshippers has led to persistent traffic congestion during Friday congregational prayers, underscoring the need for a more spacious and properly planned settlement.

The traditional leader reaffirmed the support of the Hausa community for the administration of Governor Alex Otti and commended the governor, as well as his Chief of Staff, Caleb Ajagba, for their intervention during recent security incidents involving Hausa traders in the state.

Sarki Shehu also called for improved urban planning to curb the conversion of residential buildings into commercial premises. He further appealed for the expansion of affordable metropolitan transportation services across Aba to ease movement for residents and business owners.

Receiving the delegation, the Abia State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu, commended the Hausa community for its peaceful coexistence and contributions to the state’s socio-economic development.

He assured the delegation that the administration of Governor Alex Otti remains committed to treating all lawful residents equally, irrespective of tribe, religion, or social background.

Nwachukwu emphasized that the state government would continue to provide protection, welfare, and equal opportunities to every law-abiding resident while strengthening collaboration with all stakeholders to sustain peace, unity, and inclusive development across Abia State.