Governor Alex Otti commissions Omenuko Bridge and 30km Arochukwu Road, marking a major infrastructure breakthrough in Abia State.
Governor Alex Otti has officially commissioned two landmark infrastructure projects in Abia State, the reconstructed 30-kilometre Ozu Abam, Ndi Okereke, Okobo, Amuvi, Arochukwu Road and the newly built Omenuko Bridge, marking what many describe as a historic turning point for Arochukwu Local Government Area.
The projects were commissioned by Abia State Governor Alex Otti alongside Nigeria’s first Igbo Chief of Army Staff, Onyeabor Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd), during a ceremony that drew dignitaries, traditional rulers and community leaders.
The 30km road, long abandoned by previous administrations, connects several communities including Ozu Abam, Ndi Okereke, Okobo and Amuvi, providing direct access to Arochukwu and easing movement across the region. For years, residents reportedly had to pass through neighboring Akwa Ibom State to access Arochukwu due to the poor condition of the route.
Equally significant is the newly constructed Omenuko Bridge over the Igwu River. The iconic structure replaces a dilapidated colonial-era bridge that had become a death trap for motorists and pedestrians. The old bridge, originally built during British colonial rule to link Bende district headquarters, deteriorated for decades, resulting in tragic accidents and economic setbacks for surrounding communities.
Speaking at a reception held at Ozu Abam High School after the commissioning, Governor Otti described the moment as “the breaking of a jinx,” emphasizing that the projects symbolize a new era of prosperity and responsible governance in Abia State.
According to him, the delivery of critical infrastructure demonstrates his administration’s resolve to confront years of neglect and rebuild public confidence.
The governor became emotional while recalling lives lost at the former Omenuko Bridge, including families and students who perished while attempting to cross the river. He extended condolences to affected families and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that such tragedies never occur again.
Governor Otti also used the occasion to announce the confirmation of Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole as the substantive Secretary to the State Government, while Professor Kenneth Kalu was named President of the Abia State Leadership Academy.
In his remarks, Lt. Gen. Ihejirika commended the governor for prioritizing people-centered infrastructure, describing the road and bridge as critical links that will enhance economic activity, security and social integration across Abam and Arochukwu communities.
The Commissioner for Works, Engr. Otumchere Oti, noted that the projects would significantly reduce travel time and boost commerce, especially in rural areas that had previously suffered isolation.
Lawmakers representing Arochukwu and Ohafia constituencies, community leaders, and traditional authorities praised the development. His Eminence, Eze Aro, Dr. Eberechukwu Kanu, lauded the governor for rewriting the history of the area’s infrastructure and offered prayers for continued progress.
The event concluded with cultural displays, reflecting widespread community excitement over what many residents described as a long-awaited transformation.
With the commissioning of the Omenuko Bridge and the Arochukwu Road, Abia State signals a renewed focus on infrastructure renewal aimed at stimulating economic growth, improving connectivity and restoring public trust in governance.