The End of a Nightmare: Governor Alex Otti Flags Off Reconstruction of Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene Road
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has officially flagged off the reconstruction of a 25-kilometre failed section of the Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Highway, marking what he described as “the end of a nightmare” for residents and commuters who have endured years of hardship on the dilapidated route. Speaking at the ceremony held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Ahiaeke Umuahia, Governor Otti emphasized that the prosperity of any society depends on deliberate investments in infrastructure, noting that road development remains central to Abia’s economic transformation agenda. He cited historical examples—from the Roman and Chinese empires to the United States and the United Arab Emirates—to illustrate how infrastructure has consistently served as the foundation of national growth and social progress. “You cannot go wrong by investing in standard infrastructure, especially roads in critical corridors,” Otti declared. The governor said the project represents another bold step in his administration’s mission to restore Abia’s infrastructure and open up communities to economic opportunities. He expressed gratitude to the people of Abia for their patience and resilience, assuring them that visible progress would soon begin to erase the painful experiences of the past. Governor Otti explained that although the Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road is a federal highway, his administration considers every road used by Abians as a state priority. “We do not accept the doctrine of dichotomy when it comes to roads,” he said, stressing that all major roads across Abia—whether federal, state, or local—will be maintained to support commerce and mobility. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting approval for the state to undertake the project and acknowledged the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, for his technical guidance and cooperation. Otti also condemned the attempts by some political figures to sabotage the initiative for selfish reasons, insisting that “political differences should never obstruct the responsibilities of governance.” The governor revealed that the initial contract for the highway was awarded over a decade ago but stalled, leaving the road in a deplorable state. With the renewed federal approval, the state has now engaged Geld Construction Limited, a reputable engineering firm, to execute the project within 18 months. The reconstruction will also include solar-powered streetlights to enhance safety and economic activity along the corridor. Governor Otti urged residents to cooperate with contractors during the construction phase, acknowledging that temporary inconveniences such as traffic delays and environmental disturbances would occur. He called for patience, civic responsibility, and community vigilance as the state continues to rebuild critical infrastructure. “Abia is rising from the ruins of yesteryears,” the governor said. “We must all play our part by paying taxes, keeping our communities safe, and rejecting the antics of those who wish to drag us back into failure and neglect.” The governor concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure and building a prosperous new Abia founded on transparency, resilience, and inclusive growth.
