Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has officially flagged off the reconstruction of Sections 1 and 2 of the 13.9-kilometre Onuinyang – Okporoenyi – Oboro – Ikwuano road, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development and economic transformation. The flag-off ceremony, held at Central School Okporoenyi in Bende Local Government Area, was attended by government officials, traditional rulers, and enthusiastic community members who expressed gratitude for the long-awaited intervention.
Governor Otti, while addressing the gathering, emphasized that the road project is a vital economic artery that will link the central and northern parts of the state, providing thousands of farmers with seamless access to urban markets both within and outside Abia State. He assured the people of quality work and timely completion, noting that road infrastructure plays a critical role in the economic prosperity of any society.
“In the new Abia, we conceive roads as pathways to prosperity for present and future generations,” Governor Otti declared. “Our determination to build quality road networks to connect all parts of the state is founded on the conviction that there are abundant human and material resources to be harnessed by opening roads that were hitherto abandoned through systemic neglect.”
The governor stressed that the project is not merely about constructing roads but about unlocking economic opportunities for the people. He noted that when completed, the road would significantly enhance commerce, boost agricultural productivity, and ease the movement of goods and services across the state.
Governor Otti highlighted the importance of the benefiting communities, describing them as central to Abia State’s agricultural development.
“The communities around this corridor are renowned for their agricultural produce, including cocoa, cassava, rice, cereals, and vegetables. The completion of this road will facilitate the transportation of people and agricultural commodities, fast-track inter-community trade, and broaden social interactions among individuals, families, and clans,” he stated.
According to him, by enhancing connectivity, the road will open up new economic possibilities, attract investment, and improve the overall standard of living for residents. The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that no community in the state is left behind in the drive for sustainable development.
“We made a commitment at the inception of this administration that not a single community in Abia shall be neglected in our determined push to revive the economy and create an environment that supports the dreams and aspirations of our hardworking population. This project is a demonstration of that fidelity.”
Governor Otti also used the occasion to commend the resilience of the people in sustaining their farming activities despite the decades of infrastructural decay that hindered their progress. He assured them that 2025 would mark a turning point for millions of Ndi Abia across the state’s 17 local government areas.
Several dignitaries who spoke at the event lauded the governor’s initiative, acknowledging his resolve to bring development to every corner of Abia State.
Hon. Emmanuel Ndubuisi, the member representing Bende South State Constituency, and Mr. Chijioke Nwankwo, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor, expressed their joy and gratitude, stating that the road project is evidence of the governor’s dedication to good governance.
“Governor Otti’s resolve to fix this road shows that he is determined to govern Abia well. We are grateful for his commitment to the people,” Hon. Ndubuisi stated.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Otumchere Oti, commended the governor for his unwavering commitment to infrastructural development. He noted that the benefiting communities are known for their production of various food and cash crops but have been severely hampered by a lack of access roads.
“The absence of good roads has hindered economic progress in these communities for decades. This intervention by Governor Otti will change the narrative,” he said.
Engr. Oti disclosed that the road is divided into two sections, each being handled by different construction companies. He assured that the contract period is six months and that the road, upon completion, would be of high quality.
“It is an asphaltic concrete road with covered drains, culverts, and solar-powered streetlights. We are ensuring that all necessary engineering standards are adhered to for durability and sustainability,” he added.
The mayors of Ikwuano and Bende, Dr. Anthony Nwaubani and Deacon Uwabunkeonye Bassey, respectively, also praised the governor’s efforts, describing him as a leader who delivers on his promises. They noted that the road will serve as a major boost to agriculture in Abia State.
Traditional rulers and community members who attended the event could not hide their excitement. They acknowledged that the road, last constructed in 1952 under the leadership of the late Dr. Michael Okpara, had been in a deplorable state for decades.
Eze Engr. Ossy Iromantu of Okporoenyi Autonomous Community, Eze (Prof.) Innocent Ezeala of Ibe Uzo Amawom-Oboro, and Chief Sunny Chigbu of Nkalunta, in their goodwill messages, praised Governor Otti for remembering their communities and embarking on the road project.
“This road has been a nightmare for us. Many governments came and promised to fix it, but nothing happened. We are witnessing history today. Governor Otti has proven to be a man of his word,” Eze Iromantu remarked.
Chief Sunny Chigbu noted that the road would open doors to greater agricultural development, describing the benefiting communities as the “food basket of Abia State.” He, along with other community leaders, prayed for God’s blessings upon the governor and his administration.
The flag-off of the Onuinyang – Okporoenyi – Oboro – Ikwuano road reconstruction marks yet another milestone in Governor Alex Otti’s administration’s quest for a better Abia. With his strategic focus on infrastructure and economic revitalization, Ndi Abia can look forward to a future of progress and prosperity.
As construction work kicks off, the people of Bende and Ikwuano eagerly anticipate the completion of the project, which promises to bring lasting benefits to their communities, enhance mobility, and strengthen the state’s agricultural economy.
With a government that is clearly committed to development, the dream of a new Abia is steadily becoming a reality.