By Chinazaekpere Chinwendu
January 10, 2026 —
Abia 2027 governorship aspirant, Chief Mascot Uzor-Kalu (MUK), has attributed the slow pace of economic activity in Abia State’s capital to what he described as glaring governance gaps, arguing that the absence of a functional night economy in Umuahia reflects deeper structural and leadership challenges.
Speaking, the APC chieftain said the city’s lack of vibrancy after dusk is a major indicator of stalled economic growth.
Uzor-Kalu noted that Umuahia, despite being a state capital, shuts down unusually early, leaving businesses, hospitality operators, and service providers without opportunities to thrive beyond daytime hours. According to him, a city without nightlife struggles to sustain commerce, employment, and internally generated revenue, all of which are essential for long-term development.
“There is no nightlife in Umuahia at all. This is a whole capital city, yet once it gets to a certain hour, everywhere is quiet,” Uzor-Kalu said. “You have to ask yourself, how does an economy grow when a city goes to sleep so early?”
He explained that a thriving night economy is not merely about entertainment but about safety, infrastructure, power supply, transportation, and government presence. Mascot Uzor-Kalu argued that where these elements are lacking, investors are discouraged and local entrepreneurs are forced to relocate to more active cities.
“The nightlife of a city reflects the confidence people have in security, governance, and opportunity,” he stated.
“When government is visible and functional, businesses stay open, jobs are created, and the economy keeps moving. Unfortunately, that presence is missing in Abia today.”
MUK further criticized what he described as a disconnect between the government and everyday economic realities faced by residents. He said the impact of governance should be felt in simple but critical areas such as urban planning, support for small businesses, and policies that encourage round-the-clock economic activity.
“Government presence in Abia is lacking in certain areas,” he said. “People should feel governance in their daily lives. If the capital city is inactive at night, it tells you that something fundamental is wrong.”
Projecting his vision, Chief Mascot Uzor-Kalu pledged that an administration under his leadership would prioritize economic revitalization in Umuahia and other urban centres across the state. He said restoring confidence in the capital city would involve deliberate investment in security, infrastructure, and policies that support local businesses.
“When we become governor, we will fix this,” MUK declared. “Umuahia must function like a true capital city, alive with legitimate economic activities that benefit traders, artisans, young people, and investors. Economic growth does not happen by chance; it requires intentional governance.”
He concluded by emphasizing that Abia State has the human capacity and commercial potential to compete with other regional capitals, but warned that without purposeful leadership and consistent government engagement, the state risks continued economic stagnation.
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