Rail, ferry services, air transport expansion, and an urban tram network have emerged as key priorities for developing Anambra State, according to findings from an African Development Bank-backed diagnostic study of Awka.
Spanish engineering firm Acciona is conducting the research as part of the AfDB's City Action Plan, which aims to shape future development across the state capital and surrounding regions.
Edward Obiefuna Ibuzo, Anambra's transport commissioner, explained that the study is mapping the city's most urgent challenges and high-potential projects spanning transportation, infrastructure, housing, land use, the environment, power, tourism, and waste management.
Elisa Mussolettini, the team leader and urban planner, stressed that transportation serves as a vital engine for economic growth and city development. She said the engagement was meant to evaluate mobility bottlenecks, infrastructure shortfalls, and avenues for investment to fuel long-term expansion in Anambra.
Discussions focused heavily on creating a unified transport network that connects roads, rail, air, and water systems. Stakeholders pinpointed rail expansion as fundamental to the state's transport future, drawing from Anambra's 2024 Draft Rail Transport Master Plan.
The state's rivers also drew attention as an underutilised resource. Participants explored using ferry services to boost connectivity between communities, reduce strain on roads, and generate income in areas along waterways.
Officials also pushed for strengthening operations at Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport by attracting more airlines and improving links to spur trade, visitors, and business investment.
Within Awka's vision to become a smart city, planners examined building a tram system to deliver green mass transit, cut traffic congestion, and improve how people move around. Development partners flagged potential backing from global green infrastructure schemes.
Stakeholders stressed that success depends on close cooperation between government bodies, development agencies, and business players to bring these projects to life. They voiced optimism that the Awka City Diagnostic Study's results will direct future spending and realise Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo's goal of making Anambra a modern, well-connected, and economically strong state.
Acciona's role is to verify Anambra's development needs on the ground and report findings back to the AfDB, which will then decide whether to fund interventions. Only three states qualified for this opportunity, and Awka is the sole representative from Nigeria.
