Governor Otti Flags Off 11.27km Mbala - Umuaku - Ngodo Umunneochi Road Construction, Approves Another Project
Umunneochi, Abia State In a significant move to enhance road infrastructure in Abia State, Governor Dr. Alex Otti has officially flagged off the construction of the 11.27-kilometre Mbala - Umuaku - Ngodo Road in Umunneochi Local Government Area (LGA). This project is set to boost economic activities and improve connectivity within the region.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Governor Otti emphasized the strategic importance of Umunneochi in the socioeconomic landscape of Abia and the South East region. He assured the people that this project marks just the beginning of a series of infrastructural developments planned for the area.
In addition to the Mbala - Umuaku - Ngodo Road project, Governor Otti announced the approval of another key road construction in the area "the Leru - Lekwesi - Lokpanta - Lokpaukwu Road, which has been earmarked for reconstruction.
Furthermore, in response to the community appeal, he directed the Commissioner for Works to inspect the Nmang Bridge and submit a report for its potential rehabilitation.
Governor Otti also revealed that Umunneochi LGA has been selected as one of three locations for a multi-billion Naira agro-industrial processing facility.
I'm glad to inform this August gathering that Umunneochi has been selected as one of the three locations where the government will site a multi-billion Naira agro-industrial processing facility, and this will happen very shortly, the Governor stated.
He highlighted that the facility will integrate agricultural production, aggregation, and processing, with a focus on both local consumption and export. This initiative is expected to boost agribusiness, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the state economy.
Governor Otti commended the people of Umunneochi for their support and unity, which he credited as instrumental in the restoration of security in the area.
Our success in the restoration of security in this part points to what is possible when we work in unity as leaders to solve the social and economic problems facing our communities,he noted.
He called for non-partisan cooperation among leaders, emphasizing that the welfare of Umunneochi people must not be sacrificed for politics.
Chief Amobi Ogah, Member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency.
Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejiocha, Minister of State for Labour and Employment.
Chief Mathias Umeh, Member representing Umunneochi State Constituency.
Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, Commissioner for Lands and Housing.
They described the road project as a unifying factor for Umunneochi and urged the Governor to also prioritize the rehabilitation of the Nmang Bridge.
The Commissioner for Works, Engr. Otumchere Otti, highlighted the economic potential of Umunneochi and the importance of the road to agribusiness. He noted that the area produces cashew, cassava, yams, and black beans in commercial quantities.
He further explained that the road will:
Enhance agricultural trade and accessibility.
Attract direct and indirect employment for skilled and unskilled workers.
Boost Abia's Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
The project, which has a 12-month completion timeline, will include culverts, drainage systems, and street lights in built-up areas. The Commissioner expressed optimism that the contractor will deliver according to standard specifications.
With the flag-off of the Mbala - Umuaku - Ngodo Road project and the approval of the Leru - Lekwesi - Lokpanta - Lokpaukwu Road, Governor Otti's administration is making significant strides in infrastructure, security, and economic development in Umunneochi. The upcoming agro-industrial facility further reinforces the government commitment to transforming Abia into an economic hub.
