Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, and Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Sen. (Engr.) Dave Umahi, CON, on Friday, October 31, 2025, jointly inspected the ongoing Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway reconstruction, urging contractors to intensify efforts to ensure timely completion.
During the inspection, Minister Umahi commended Governor Otti for his outstanding collaboration with the Federal Government, describing their synergy as a model for infrastructural cooperation between the states and the presidency.
Umahi praised Otti for fostering development across Abia and lauded the cordial relationship between him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the President’s support for projects in Abia reflects his belief in merit-driven governance.
“When it comes to the development of this country, President Tinubu does not care about political affiliation,” Umahi said. “He has so much love for Governor Otti, and Abia people are lucky to have a governor who shares the President’s passion for development.”
The visit followed earlier concerns from the Federal Government over the slow pace of work by the China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), which led to a termination threat. However, the situation was resolved after Governor Otti personally intervened, assuring that the contractor would accelerate work and deliver a quality project.
Minister Umahi further disclosed that some sections of the road would now be built using reinforced rigid pavement, designed for greater durability and reduced maintenance.
During the site tour, Umahi acknowledged Otti’s pivotal role in restoring cooperation between the Federal Government and CCECC, noting that the company’s renewed commitment was a direct result of the governor’s intervention.
The Works Minister also praised the ongoing urban renewal in Aba, saying,
“You can pick a pin on the streets of Aba that’s how orderly and clean it has become under this governor. Abia never had it this good before.”
Umahi expressed disappointment, however, with the slow progress on the 4.5km stretch still under construction by Arab Contractors, warning that contracts could be revoked if improvements were not seen soon.
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In his response, Governor Otti thanked the Minister for his support and reassured both the Federal Government and Abians that his administration remained committed to delivering quality and lasting road infrastructure.
“Roads provide access and opportunities. Without them, our people and businesses are stuck,” Otti said. “That’s why we are determined to ensure every road under construction is completed to standard.”
The governor also appreciated President Tinubu for granting approvals for multiple Federal roads in Abia State, including the Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road, Owerrinta–Umuikaa Dualization, Onuimo–Tower Road, Ohafia–Arochukwu Road, and the Omenuko Bridge, which has now been completed.
Governor Otti emphasized that governance should transcend political divides, adding:
“Once elections are over, governance takes over. Opposition is not about denying what is good. Development is a shared responsibility across all levels of government.”
The inspection ended with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to delivering durable infrastructure that would ease transportation, boost trade, and improve the livelihoods of residents along the Enugu–Port Harcourt corridor.
