“We Haven’t Forgotten Our Brave Women”: Abia State Pushes for Aba to Become a UNESCO Creative City While Honoring the Heroes of 1929.

Abia State is reaching for something big literally global recognition. The government has officially launched a bid to get Aba, famously called Enyimba City, designated as a UNESCO Creative City. And that’s not all. They’re also making plans to honor the fearless women who led the 1929 Aba Women’s Riot.

Why Aba? Anyone who knows the city understands its magic: leatherworks, fashion, and homegrown manufacturing that can compete anywhere in the world. The government wants to put that on the map not just for pride, but for tourism, culture, and new opportunities.

Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, broke the news after this week’s State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti. He explained that Aba is being put forward under the “Design” category. The process is already moving, and they’ve seen good progress.

“This is about showing the world that Aba is a center of innovation and craftsmanship,” Kanu said.

Beyond the UNESCO dream, the government approved building monuments in key spots around Aba and Umuahia, fixing up the Ojukwu Bunker and the National War Museum, and even staging a reenactment of the 1929 Women’s Riot. That reenactment will be a joint effort with the First Lady’s office and the Ministry of Women Affairs—to celebrate the heroines of the past and the distinguished women of today.

The Ibom Waterfalls in Arochukwu will also be developed into a proper tourist site, with community buy-in already secured.

On the transportation front, the newly launched Nnenna Oti Central Bus Terminal and the Abia Green Shuttle Electric Bus Scheme are already running. The Aba Central Bus Terminal, 40 bus shelters, charging stations, and improved junctions are underway. Plus, the computerized vehicle inspection centers in Aba and Umuahia are now fully open—aimed at making roads safer.

Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Matthew Ekwuribe, admitted the UNESCO process could take two to three years. But he believes it’s worth it because Aba already has the reputation to back it up.

Transport Commissioner Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu said bus operators will move into the new terminal in phases. And for workers of the Abia State Passengers Integrated Manifest and Safety Scheme (ASPIMSS) who’ve been owed salaries? Special Adviser Ferdinand Ekeoma confirmed they’ve now been absorbed into the civil service, and outstanding payments will be cleared soon.

It’s a lot. But for a state determined to honor its past while building a creative, connected future it’s just getting started.