Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex C. Otti, OFR, has announced plans to commence the reconstruction of Uratta Road and Old Express Road in Aba, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring critical infrastructure and improving economic activities in the commercial city.
Governor Otti also approved the construction of Umuebeke Road, located off Port Harcourt Road, Aba, a project expected to ease transportation challenges and improve access for residents, businesses and other road users along the corridor.
The Governor made the announcements on Sunday, September 13, 2026, while speaking at a thanksgiving Mass held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Umuogor, in Aba South Local Government Area.
The planned reconstruction of Uratta Road and Old Express Road forms part of the state government’s broader efforts to rehabilitate major roads and improve connectivity across Aba. The Governor said the projects would contribute to the ongoing transformation of the city and support commercial activities.
Speaking on requests presented by the church, Governor Otti said the issue of bringing polling units closer to residents would be considered in the future. He explained that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would likely have completed the necessary delineation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
On the church’s proposed land project, the Governor promised to collaborate with industrialist Ide John Udeagbara to provide support. He, however, reiterated his position that government funds would not be used to finance projects that are not government responsibilities.
Governor Otti also pledged support for the parish’s fundraising efforts toward the construction of a home for retired priests.
The Governor used the occasion to commend the homily delivered by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Brendan Obiji, particularly his message on forgiveness. He described forgiveness as an important ingredient for personal growth, societal progress and national healing.
According to the Governor, holding on to grievances can prevent people from moving forward, stressing the importance of forgiving others, learning from difficult experiences and moving ahead with life.
Earlier in his homily, Rev. Fr. Obiji urged Christians to embrace forgiveness and let go of past grievances. He also expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for the reconstruction of Port Harcourt Road, describing the project as a major intervention that has helped revive economic activities in the area.
The Parish Priest further assured the Governor of the church’s support for his administration and appealed for additional polling units in the community to make voting more accessible to residents. He equally sought government assistance for the church’s land development project.
In a goodwill message, Chief Peter Nwosu thanked Governor Otti for visiting the parish and expressed the congregation’s continued support for his administration.
He said the church would mobilise support for the Governor’s re-election bid in 2027, citing what he described as the administration’s achievements and commitment to the welfare of Abia residents.
Chief Nwosu particularly commended the administration’s interventions in road construction and reconstruction, while identifying environmental sanitation as one of the Governor’s most significant achievements. He recalled the poor state of cleanliness in parts of Aba before the current administration and praised the changes recorded since Governor Otti assumed office.
The latest announcements on Uratta Road, Old Express Road and Umuebeke Road add to the ongoing infrastructure interventions in Aba, where road rehabilitation remains central to efforts to improve mobility, commerce and the overall urban environment.
The Abia State Government says the continued investment in critical infrastructure is aimed at creating a more functional environment for residents, businesses and investors while strengthening Aba’s position as a major commercial hub.
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Source: Office of the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, September 13, 2026.
