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The Nigerian government has officially transferred the completion of several major infrastructure projects to the Abia State government, including the Owerri–Umuaka Road, Onuigbo–Umuahia Road, Omezuo Bridge, and Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road.
The decision followed Governor Alex Otti’s request and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s subsequent approval, reflecting a collaborative approach to fast-track road infrastructure development.
Speaking on behalf of the President during a civic reception organised by the Bende Progressive Union at the Aba Enyimba Stadium, the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, said the transfer underscored the Renewed Hope Administration’s dedication to enhancing the national road network and strengthening federal–state collaboration.
Umahi authorised Governor Otti to oversee the construction, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of the roads, urging other governors to emulate such proactive initiatives in the national interest.
Commending Otti’s commitment to rehabilitating federal roads, Umahi described him as a leader motivated by public service rather than political ties.
“I am pleased that most of our governors are taking the bull by the horns,” Umahi remarked, noting that the projects had long suffered from inadequate funding, which delayed progress and completion.
He urged residents of Abia and the wider South-East region to support the current administration and endorse President Tinubu for a second term to ensure continued relevance in national development.
Earlier in the day, upon arriving in Aba, Umahi paid an unscheduled inspection visit to the ongoing reconstruction of the 56.1-kilometre Section II (Umuahia Tower–Aba) of the Enugu–Port Harcourt dual carriageway, handled by Messrs Arab Contractors (Nig.) Limited.
He criticised the company for falling short of its usual standards in quality and timely delivery and gave it one month to complete the remaining 4.1 kilometres.
In response, Governor Otti thanked President Tinubu for granting him approval to complete the projects, describing the initiative as a valuable contribution to the welfare of Abia residents and Nigerians at large.
He noted that this was not the first time Abia State had intervened in federal projects, adding that “the end justifies the means.”
In his remarks, the leader of the Bende Progressive Union praised Otti’s transformative leadership over his 29 months in office, describing it as ushering in a new era of purposeful governance and visible development in the state.
He also highlighted the industrious and supportive nature of the Bende people, announcing a unanimous vote of confidence in Governor Otti’s administration.
The union leader urged Otti to prioritise the rehabilitation of rural and agrarian roads in Bende and neighbouring Ebonyi communities to boost agricultural productivity and ease the movement of goods and people.
The Bende Union concluded by honouring Otti for his integrity and professionalism during the 2023 governorship election.
