Umahi Commends Governor Alex Otti for Reconstructing Federal Roads in Abia
The Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, has heaped praises on Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for his outstanding contributions to infrastructure development, particularly in the reconstruction of federal roads across the state.
Engr. Umahi, who was on an unannounced inspection tour of federal road projects in the state, visited Governor Otti in his Umuahia office following the inspection of key road sites ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s scheduled visit later in the year.
“I didn’t want to tell you (Gov. Otti); you didn’t know I was coming,” Umahi disclosed. “I’m here principally to secretly inspect some federal projects in Abia that we hope to commission by December, and also the massive works being done by you, which the President will commission. I must say, I’m very proud of what you’re doing for Abia people.”
Highlighting the Port Harcourt Road in Aba, Umahi described the project as “mind-blowing,” adding that its transformation reflects Governor Otti’s passion and determination.
“Not only is the quantity of completed work impressive, but the quality is also exceptional. The recovery of Port Harcourt Road is a miracle on its own. I commend you highly, and I believe only President Tinubu — the man of infrastructure — is qualified to commission that kind of project.”
The Works Minister also expressed appreciation for Governor Otti’s cooperation in the dual construction sections of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, noting that progress on the project had been stalled prior to Otti’s assumption of office.
Calling for synergy between states and the federal government, Umahi urged governors across Nigeria to collaborate with the centre for the good of the people, regardless of political affiliations.
“Please look into the plight of our people on the other carriageway. Even if you have to use the same contractor, we will appreciate your intervention,” Umahi appealed.
He also acknowledged the longstanding relationship between President Tinubu and Governor Otti, describing the Governor as a close ally of the President even before his (Umahi’s) own acquaintance with the President.
“We, as Ndigbo and Southeasterners, should stand by President Tinubu who is standing with us. You don’t need a sermon on supporting him. I say this confidently — all the governors of the Southeast are standing with the President.”
In response, Governor Alex Otti reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to infrastructure development and collaboration with the Federal Government.
“When these roads are completed, credit goes to the government — both state and federal — because it is the same government, and the beneficiaries are the people,” he stated.
Governor Otti recounted his earlier meeting with President Tinubu where he sought approval to intervene in dilapidated federal roads such as the Port Harcourt Road in Aba, the Ohafia-Arochukwu Road, and the Onuimo-Umuahia Road.
He also explained the postponement of the initial commissioning date for the completed Port Harcourt Road, stating that the event was rescheduled due to the President’s visit to the Vatican.
“We were ready to commission the road on May 23, but due to the President’s Vatican visit for the inauguration of the new Pope, we had to reschedule. We’re currently finalizing a new date with his office.”
The Governor also pledged to look into the unfixed portion of the Enugu–Port Harcourt expressway as requested by the Minister and directed his Commissioner for Works to inspect the site.
With several high-impact road projects nearing completion, Abia State is poised for a significant transformation under the Otti-led administration, solidifying its place on the national development map.
