The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has officially flagged off the construction of the 11.27km Mbala-Umuaku-Ngodo Road in the Umunneochi Local Government Area.
The project which is awarded to I.A.C. Allied Tech and Construction Company Ltd, is part of Governor Otti’s commitment to modernizing Abia’s road network and boosting economic activities in rural communities.
Speaking at the event which took place at the end of the road in Ngodo on Wednesday, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring that no part of the state is left behind in the development agenda.
Addressing a large crowd of stakeholders, community leaders, and residents, Governor Otti emphasized the importance of infrastructure in driving economic growth and improving the lives of the people.
“You have gathered in large numbers from different clans and villages Umuchieze, Nneato and Isuochi to share in the joy of this event because you know that this is only the beginning of what is to come,” he said.
The governor used the occasion to highlight the government’s efforts in restoring security to Umunneochi, which had previously been a hotspot for criminal activities. He commended the cooperation of residents with security agencies, stating that their support played a crucial role in stabilizing the area.
“Our success in the restoration of security in this part of the state points to what is possible when we work in unity as leaders to solve the social and economic problems facing our community,” he said.
In response to community demands, Governor Otti announced the approval of the reconstruction of the Enugu Port Harcourt road link from Leru-Lekwesi-Lokpanta-Lokpaukwu road. He acknowledged that infrastructural challenges remain but assured the people that the government is prioritizing key projects to enhance transportation and connectivity. He directed the Commissioner for Works to also inspect the Mmam Bridge for possible reconstruction.
Furthermore, the governor revealed that his administration is currently retrofitting several primary healthcare facilities and has identified primary and secondary schools in Umunneochi for remodelling under the state’s Education Transformation Program. He announced that Umunneochi has been selected as one of the three locations for a multi-billion naira agro-industrial processing facility.
“This time, we shall go beyond just primary production and begin to add value to whatever is mined from the ground to increase the economic benefits to the local communities, including job creation,” Otti said.
Governor Otti urged the people of Umunneochi to take ownership of the road project and cooperate with the contractors to ensure its timely completion. He also warned against vandalism and theft of construction materials, emphasizing that such acts would be treated as sabotage against the development of the community.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by key government officials, including the State Honorable Minister for Labor and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha and the Commissioner for Works, Mr. Otumchere Oti. The road construction is expected to be completed within 12 months, providing a crucial transportation link for the people of Umunneochi and contributing to the economic development of the area.
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