Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure by declaring that his government does not differentiate between federal and state roads.
He emphasized that all roads should be made accessible for the benefit of the citizens, regardless of their designation. This stance was evident during the flag-off of the reconstruction of a 25 kilometer stretch of the 51 kilometer Umuahia Ikot Ekpene federal road, which has been in a deplorable state for decades. The project is to be financed by the Abia State Government and is expected to be completed within 18 months.
Governor Otti stated that the majority of the users of these roads are the state’s residents, who rely on them daily for commuting and transporting agricultural produce to urban markets. He highlighted that the focus should be on the welfare of the people rather than the ownership of the roads. The governor also noted that his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development is evident in the ongoing projects across the state.
In his address, Governor Otti acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu, who granted approval for the state to undertake the reconstruction of the federal road. He commended the president for not yielding to the objections of certain political figures who attempted to hinder the project. The governor also expressed gratitude to the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, for his support despite opposition from some quarters.
Further demonstrating his administration’s approach, Governor Otti also inaugurated the construction of the 13.5 kilometer Ariam Usaka Ring Road in Ikwuano Local Government Area. This project, which is expected to be completed within 12 months, aims to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activities in the region. The governor emphasized that the road is designed as an economic enabler for the people of Ikwuano and the entire Abia State, given the interconnectivity of agriculture and entrepreneurship in the area.
Governor Otti outlined plans to commence additional road infrastructure projects in the upcoming 2026 budget cycle. The grand plan is to connect communities within Oloko, Oboro, Ibere, and Ariam to each other and to the clans and communities in Bende, Umuahia North, and South local government areas. These initiatives are part of the administration’s broader strategy to improve transportation networks and promote economic development across the state.
In conclusion, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, stating that every road in Abia, whether federal, state, or local government, shall be viewed and maintained to support the state’s economic and social endeavors. He emphasized that the focus is on the well-being of the people, regardless of the ownership of the roads.
