Abia State Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing all ongoing road projects within Ukwa East, dismissing concerns raised by a delegation from the Ezumezu Ndoki Patriotic Association regarding stalled construction. During the meeting, Governor Otti addressed specific projects, emphasizing his resolve to ensure their timely completion. He explained the ongoing progress of the Akirikaobu route, a significant infrastructural undertaking linking Obingwa to Akwa Ibom State, reassuring the delegation that the project remained on track. This commitment to cross-state connectivity underscores the administration’s focus on broader regional development and economic integration.

Regarding the Obohia road, the governor acknowledged initial setbacks but stressed that construction was currently underway. He elaborated on the challenges faced, including the discovery of a blocked original tunnel, which necessitated the construction of a new, deeper tunnel to effectively manage water flow towards the Aba River. This detailed explanation demonstrates a commitment to transparency and a willingness to address the technical challenges hindering project completion, highlighting a pragmatic approach to infrastructure development. The governor also attributed the earlier delays to the previous administration’s engagement with Heartland, a company that had initially abandoned the project. His administration’s intervention and successful renegotiation with the company underline a decisive and results-oriented approach to resolving inherited infrastructural challenges.

The much-anticipated seaport project in Ukwa East was also a focal point of the discussion. Governor Otti clarified that the project has experienced delays due to funding concerns, despite receiving feasibility reports from Chinese partners. The reports revealed the need for extensive dredging, approximately 19.5 kilometers, significantly exceeding initial estimates. This unexpected development necessitated a reassessment of the project’s financial viability, a testament to the administration’s prudent fiscal management and commitment to responsible resource allocation. The governor emphasized the importance of securing adequate funding before commencing such a large-scale project to avoid the pitfalls of abandonment or delays. He reassured the delegation that the project remained a priority, with all necessary approvals and licenses secured, and that his administration was actively exploring funding options and partnerships to ensure its successful execution.

Governor Otti’s engagement with the Ezumezu Ndoki Patriotic Association reflects his administration’s commitment to open communication and community engagement. By directly addressing the community’s concerns and providing detailed explanations, he aimed to foster trust and transparency, crucial elements for fostering collaborative development. This participatory approach underscores the importance of community input in shaping the state’s infrastructure agenda. The governor expressed gratitude for the community’s ongoing support and encouraged them to view his administration as a partner in their development aspirations. This emphasis on collaboration and shared ownership of the development process reinforces the idea of a government responsive to the needs and aspirations of its citizens.

Prior to the governor’s address, Chibunna Akara, the Mayor of Ukwa East, expressed the community’s satisfaction with the administration’s overall performance, signaling a positive reception of the governor’s efforts. This endorsement from a local leader provides valuable insights into the on-the-ground impact of the government’s policies and initiatives. The mayor’s positive feedback serves as a measure of the administration’s effectiveness in delivering on its promises and meeting the expectations of the people it serves.

High Chief I. N. Ahunanya, the leader of the delegation and President of the Ezumezu Ndoki Patriotic Association, further commended Governor Otti’s focus on infrastructure development. He expressed the group’s support for the governor’s re-election bid in 2027, demonstrating confidence in the administration’s long-term vision and commitment to sustainable development. While expressing overall support, Chief Ahunanya also urged the governor to address the perceived delays in road projects and prioritize the proposed seaport in Ukwa, highlighting the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration between the community and the government. This constructive engagement ensures that local priorities are effectively communicated and considered in the overall development strategy. This interaction exemplifies a productive exchange between government and community representatives, demonstrating a commitment to collaborative governance and responsive leadership.

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