Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring Abia’s road network, declaring that his government makes no distinction between federal, state, or local roads as long as they serve the people of the state.
Speaking on Thursday at the flag-off of the reconstruction of the 51-kilometre Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene federal highway, Otti said his decision to intervene was driven by necessity, not politics, describing the road as “a lifeline for Abia’s economy that has suffered years of neglect.”
“We do not accept the doctrine of dichotomy when it comes to roads,” the governor said. “The majority of those who use these roads are our people — traders, farmers, transporters, and workers. It is our duty to make them safe and motorable.”
The Abia State Government is funding 25 kilometres of the project, which is expected to be completed within 18 months, under what Otti described as a “bold infrastructural renewal agenda.”
He explained that his administration sought and received federal approval before commencing the project, adding that his intervention was a matter of responsibility and empathy for citizens who depend on the route for daily commerce and transport.
“We have made a resolute commitment that every road that passes through the length and breadth of Abia — whether federal, state, or local — shall be viewed and maintained to support our economic and social endeavours,” Otti said.
The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting permission for the state to execute the project and lauded Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, for his “understanding and technical support.”
He, however, accused some unnamed political actors from Abia of attempting to frustrate the project for selfish reasons.
“We must thank the President for refusing to be misled by the petty designs of a few unpatriotic political actors who tried to scuttle this initiative just to massage their oversized egos,” Otti said.
After the flag-off ceremony, Governor Otti proceeded to Ikwuano Local Government Area, where he inaugurated the construction of the 13.5-kilometre Ariam–Usaka Ring Road, expected to be delivered within 12 months.
Addressing residents at Obeama Ariam Model Primary School, Otti described the Ariam–Usaka project as a critical economic enabler that would connect farming communities and stimulate investment in agriculture, trade, and small-scale industries.
“Fixing the Ariam–Usaka Ring Road will signal the beginning of a new cycle of investments that will transform Ikwuano into one of Abia’s next frontiers of opportunity and prosperity,” he said.
The governor disclosed that the 2026 budget cycle would feature a fresh round of road design and construction projects to connect Oloko, Oboro, Ibere, and Ariam with other parts of the state, including Bende, Umuahia North, and Umuahia South.
He also thanked the people of Ikwuano for their “unwavering support” since 2015, promising that his administration’s development agenda would be people-centered and inclusive.
Observers and community leaders at the event described Otti’s stance on road infrastructure as “a pragmatic and people-focused policy,” arguing that the governor’s disregard for jurisdictional barriers could accelerate development across Abia State.
