Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti has flagged-off the reconstruction of the 11.5 kilometres Ntigha-Nbawsi- Umuala road in Isialangwa North LGA with a promise to complete it within one year.
Governor Alex Otti equally announced that the proposed Abia Airport Project will be flagged off sooner than later.
Speaking at the event, Governor Alex Otti said that the flag-off is to unlock the prosperity of the land and cut down the long standing barrier against the reconstruction of the road for decades as well as enhance urban-rural migration and boost investment on agriculture.
“This is more than just the regular road project; it is a statement of our determination to right the wrongs of the past and effectively remove the shackles that have held down the growth potential of this part of the State”.
“On completion, this road would shorten travel time to Umuahia from Umuala, open up the local markets within the communities and attract thousands of shoppers from the urban centres who love fresh, organic agricultural produce”.
“The opening of this stretch of road by this time next year would lead to increased agricultural investments as farmers expand their farm holdings to be able to meet the pressure of higher demands”, Governor Otti declared.
The Governor said that the terrible state of urban and rural roads in the state remains a challenge his administration is committed to solving as he places the need of the common man first in addressing the challenges within the means of available resources.
“In the last 18 months, we have moved with a resolute determination to banish the ugly memories of the past and create for Ndi Abia, the very future that we collectively dream of”.
He said that the road upon completion would breath new life into the economy of the people and communities around the area. Governor Otti also promised to remodel the Nsulu Games village in the same Isialangwa North LGA to create new urban centres outside Aba and Umuahia.
The State Chief Executive, who directed the Commissioner for Works to extend the road construction from Umuelenwoha Junction to Jaja Nwachukwu’s compound which is a kilometre road said he is remodeling the house of the late elder statesman.
“Permit me to use this opportunity to pay tribute to whom it is due. Just yesterday, I gave a final nod for the renovation of his residence and mausoleum sequel to the celebration we plan for him next year”.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Don Oti said the road was upgraded from a Trunk C to Trunk B road and would open the road to goods and agricultural produce and enhance business activities of the communities.
He highlighted the economic importance of the road which commences from Enugu-Port Harcourt express way by Ntigha, transversing from Nsulu to Ururuka road. He added that it would have solar powered street light and assured that the Ministry of Works would supervise the work to ensure it is not only delivered in time but in strict compliance to specifications.
In their speeches, some sons of Isialangwa North including the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Dr. Mathew Ekwuribe, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Calab Ajagba as well as a stakeholder, Chief Eric Opah appreciated the Governor for his decision to fix the deplorable road, saying that he is God sent to Ndi Abia. They assured their continuous support to the government of Abia State.
Earlier in his speech, the Mayor of Isialangwa North LGA, Mr. Innocent Uruakpa thanked the Governor for flagging-off the reconstruction of the road. He described the Governor as an action Governor who is committed to changing the narratives in the State.
