The Abia State Government has announced plans to commence the reconstruction of Uratta Road and Old Express Road in Aba, as part of ongoing efforts to fully restore the city’s economic and infrastructural strength.
Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, made the disclosure on Sunday, January 25, during a church service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Abayi Ariaria, Aba. The visit was in line with the Governor’s tradition of attending church services unannounced.
According to Governor Otti, significant progress has already been made in reviving Aba, popularly known as the Enyimba City, but additional work is required to consolidate the gains. He stated that the reconstruction of both Uratta Road and Old Express Road would soon be flagged off to complete the city’s recovery process.
“We have been working to recover Aba, and I believe we have made remarkable progress. However, there is still more to be done. Very soon, we will flag off the reconstruction of Uratta Road, and at the same time, the Old Express Road will also be reconstructed,” the Governor said.
Governor Otti assured residents that the projects would be executed to high standards, emphasizing that reputable and competent construction companies would handle the work. He added that the completion of the two roads would further enhance mobility, commerce, and overall urban renewal in Aba.
Speaking on civic participation, the Governor expressed concern over the low voter turnout from Aba during elections. He urged residents who are yet to register to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voters Registration exercise and also mobilize their families, friends, and neighbors to do the same.
“The gap between the population of Aba and the number of votes recorded during elections is very wide. If you are not registered, please go and register. Voting is the only way to ensure that we do not return to the mistakes of the past,” he said.
From St. Paul’s Anglican Church, the Governor proceeded to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Abayi Ariaria, Aba, where he received a warm reception from the congregation. During the visit, the parish priest appealed for the restoration of public electricity supply to the church and surrounding areas, which had been without power for an extended period.
In response, Governor Otti directed the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities to visit the church and commence the process of restoring electricity supply. This directive follows recent efforts by the administration to restore power to several communities in Asa Land after nearly nine years of blackout.
The Governor thanked religious institutions for their continued support, noting that his administration is driven by values rooted in faith and service. Clergy from both churches assured him of sustained prayers and support, praising his performance in office. The congregations echoed their support with applause and prayers for the Governor, his family, and the state.
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Governor Otti was accompanied by his wife, Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Chidimma Otti; the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie Nmeregeni; other lawmakers from Aba and Osisioma constituencies; senior government officials; and local government mayors.