The Abia State Government has issued a stern warning that it will demolish any billboard or outdoor advertising structure deemed a threat to public safety, as part of a renewed push to enforce structural standards across the state.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Abia Structures Signage and Advertisement Agency (ABSSAA), Mrs. Victoria Onwubiko, the agency announced the completion of comprehensive integrity tests on high-rise billboards and other outdoor advertising installations.
“The technical testing is now concluded,” the statement read. “ABSSAA will immediately engage billboard owners and outdoor media operators to discuss findings, recommend necessary reinforcements or replacements, and confirm ownership and installation accountability.”
The tests evaluated structural integrity, material durability, stability, load resistance, installation quality, and overall safety, moving beyond mere paperwork to a “science-based, preventive, and safety-first” regulatory approach aligned with international standards.
Structures found to be weak, poorly installed, weather-damaged, or otherwise unfit will face mandatory remedial action. “Where any structure poses a potential danger to public safety, the agency will ensure its immediate removal,” the statement warned, emphasizing that public safety remains “non-negotiable.”
The directive comes barely a week after the state government paid ₦20 million in compensation to the families of victims of a billboard collapse in Aba that killed a tricycle operator and injured several passengers.
Mrs. Onwubiko called on all billboard owners, installers, and advertising firms to fully cooperate, stating that compliance is now compulsory for continued operation in Abia State.
Reaffirming the government’s support for the outdoor advertising industry, the statement highlighted the administration’s commitment to structures that boost business visibility and urban aesthetics “without endangering human life or property.”
The agency has urged stakeholders to prepare for direct engagements in the coming days as enforcement actions begin.
