By Ogbonnaya Ikokwu
Gov. Alex Otti’s revolution on road infrastructure since assuming office on May 29, 2023 tells a story of genuine commitment to open up Abia State for robust economic, trade, and agricultural transformation.
Today, it is gratifying that the priority placed on road rehabilitation and reconstruction by the present administration is already yielding improved infrastructure, boosting economic growth, increasing access to markets, schools, and health centres, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents of the state.
In a recent media interaction in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, revealed that six newly reconstructed roads were ready for inauguration.
According to Prince Kanu, 33 roads have already been inaugurated and with the additional six expected in the coming weeks, the number will hit 39.
He further explained that the 39 roads were distinct from many others handled through direct labour by the state Ministry of Works, saying: “We don’t commission direct labour maintenance projects”.
Prominent among the roads to be inaugurated are the Port Harcourt Road, Aba, reconstructed by the globally-acclaimed construction giant, Julius Berger, and Ohanku Road, also in Aba, handled by Brass Construction Company, another highly reputable construction outfit.
Prince Kanu also said that the inaugurated roads, which spread across urban and rural communities in the three senatorial districts of the state, symbolised the unwavering commitment of Gov. Otti to ensure the development of the state and improvement of the people’s living standard across all parts of Abia.
“These road projects, no doubt, underscore the government’s resolve to ensure infrastructure renewal, inclusive development, and a conducive environment for economic growth and transformation of the state,” he said.
The commissioner also hinted that work was ongoing in 52 locations under the direct labour basket, adding that six direct labour projects had been completed with two more added.
Among the completed direct labour projects include the Ogbunammiri Drive at Ehimiri Station (about 555 meters), the Northern Approach Road (790 meters) to Muri Bridge, Ohafia LGA and line drainage at Road P, World Bank Housing Estate, Umuahia (about 240 meters).
Others are the maintenance and asphalt overlay of Abiriba Roundabout to Uruakpa Junction, Ohafia LGA (3.3 km).
Earthworks and asphalting of the Nigeria Police Headquarters premises, Umuahia (3,448.4 sqm).
Maintenance of Osusu Road in Aba.
Two new direct labour works were also added and they include Ken Ahia Avenue in Umuahia and Umuelenia Spur, a new road in Afara, Umuahia.
Prince Kanu said that 30 road projects were currently being executed by contract, with contractors performing creditably, despite the heavy rains and harsh weather conditions.
It is obvious that the urban renewal drive, aimed at improving infrastructure and boosting economic activity, reflects the government’s commitment to the holistic restoration of access roads in the state.
However, it is expected that the government sustains the momentum and also extends its efforts to rural communities.
It is also recommended that government pays attention to the collapsed link road between Umuenyere Alayi and Item communities in Bende LGA, caused by erosion, as well as other erosion-ravaged roads in other parts of the state.
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Ogbonnaya Ikokwu is a journalist and public affairs analyst, writing from Umuahia.
