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By Oscar Okhifo
The Abia state government has commissioned 14 roads in Aba, the commercial nerve centre of the South-East state.
The road projects were initiated and completed by the Governor Otti-led government.
The commissioning which held on Tuesday, was marked by fanfare and community participation, reflect the government’s ongoing urban renewal initiative.
Governor Otti, who flagged off the commissioning at various strategic locations across the city, announced that his administration plans to commission a total of 55 road projects within the next 48 hours.
Additionally, several health centres and hospitals under the “Ekwueme Projects” initiative are scheduled for commissioning later this week.
Speaking at St. Joseph’s College (CKC), Asa Triangle in Aba, after a tour of the various project sites, Otti described the occasion as a significant milestone and a “celebration of a new epoch in Abia State.”
According to him, the commissioning of these interconnected roads underscores his administration’s commitment to a holistic restoration of the Aba urban corridor and aligns with his broader urban renewal agenda.
He said, “We have gathered together in celebration, not of roads, but of new epoch. Roads do not just create paths to new opportunities, they also restore ancient landmarks.”
Highlighting key projects, Governor Otti noted that roads such as Umuode, Bakassi, Enyimba Junction to Ariaria Gate, and Isu Ihiteukwa Street have been reconstructed to enhance business activities, uplift urban living, and increase the attractiveness of the surrounding communities. He also pledged to address the water supply challenges at St. Joseph’s College, Aba.
The Governor called on residents to protect and maintain the newly commissioned roads and urged communities to ensure that commercial activities do not damage the infrastructure and that they should ensure that the environment remains clean and well-kept.
He extended his gratitude to business owners, landlords, and residents for their patience and cooperation during the construction phase. He further commended the efforts of the Ministry of Works and the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) for their roles in delivering the projects timely and as envisaged.
In separate remarks, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, and the Mayor of Aba South LGA, Hon. Obilor Anyanwu, thanked the governor for creating a business-friendly environment. They emphasized that Governor Otti has earned the unwavering support of the people of Aba, stating that he “does not need to campaign” for re-election.
Also speaking, the Director General of GADA, Mr. Uche Ukeje, reiterated the Governor’s long-standing commitment to road infrastructure, affirming that the administration has remained focused on fulfilling its campaign promises. He noted that the Eziukwu end of the road, once in a deplorable state, has now be beautifully transformed, significantly improving the flow of goods and services in the Aba markets.
Earlier in the event, the Bishop of Aba Catholic Diocese, Professor Augustine Echema, represented by Reverend Fr. Dr. Vincent Ogugua, and a representative of the Aba business community, Eze Ernest Onwuka, commended the governor for his developmental strides and pledged continued support.
The roads commissioned include:
Umuode Road, Bakassi Road, Isu Ihiteukwa Street Asa Road, Enyimba Junction to Ariaria Gate,Rehabilitated Market Road (from Asa Road to Eziukwu Road) and Tenant Road (from Asa Road to Eziukwu Road).
Others are, Cameroun Road (from Asa Road to Eziukwu Road), Ehi Road (from Queens Road to Eziukwu Road), Clifford Road (from Asa Road to Eziukwu Road), School Road (from Asa Road to Railway Crossing) and the Afikpo Road (from Eziukwu Road to School Road)
Asa Triangle Bypass.
These infrastructural developments mark a significant step forward in repositioning Aba as a commercial hub and a livable urban centre in Abia State.