Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has flagged-off the reconstruction of the 3.995km Old Express and the 3.095km Uratta Roads in Aba, with a promise to deliver the projects in record time.
Governor Otti declared that with the reconstruction being executed in collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development (ABSIID) programme and other partners, the infrastructural nightmare that plagued Aba for over two decades was coming to an end.
“You can take it for granted that the nightmare of roads in Enyimba City, particularly Ohanku, Obohia and Old Express, is now coming to an end.
“The projects will be completed and delivered on schedule, particularly because the resources required to finance every phase have long been secured. There will be no delay arising from lack of funds. The money is already in the bank,” Otti stated.
The Governor described the flag-off as a significant milestone in his administration’s efforts to restore Aba’s economic strength, improve urban infrastructure and reclaim the city’s position as a major commercial and industrial hub in the South East.
According to him, the projects are not merely about road construction, but about restoring neighbourhoods, livelihoods and commercial activities, as well as improving access to schools, healthcare facilities and other essential services.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Works, Don Otumchere Oti, said the two projects will strengthen the internal road network and improve connectivity between major transportation corridors within the commercial city.
He disclosed that the roads will incorporate drainage infrastructure, street lighting and bus stops, stressing that modern urban road construction must go beyond smooth carriageways to address pedestrian access, drainage, road safety and other transportation needs.
Also speaking, the member representing Aba North/South Federal Constituency, Hon. Mascot Alex Ikwuechegh, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, the member representing Aba Central, Hon. Ucheonye Stephen, and the 2027 Labour Party candidate for Aba North State Constituency, Mrs. Florence Ijeoma Ehuchie, while lamenting the deplorable state of the roads before now, thanked Governor Otti for rescuing the people of Aba, their visitors and customers, and assured that the Governor’s re-election is sacrosanct.
Earlier, the Project Coordinator of ABSIID, Engr. Ndudim Ononiwu, thanked Governor Otti for the confidence reposed in the project team and appreciated the host communities for accepting the projects. He assured that the team would work diligently to ensure successful delivery in line with specifications, and urged residents to cooperate with the contractor.
Speaking on behalf of Uratta and Old Express landlords and Aba La Ohazu indigenes, High Chief Isaac Emejuru commended Governor Otti for coming to their rescue, noting that previous administrations had neglected the roads.
