Governor Otti kicks off project to rebuild Aba-Port Harcourt road

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has flagged off the reconstruction of the Aba-Port Harcourt road, a vital  but long-abandoned6.8-kilometree road that connects the commercial city of Aba to the oil-rich Port Harcourt in Rivers State.

The road project, which was awarded to Julius Berger, a reputable construction company, at the cost of N30 billion, is expected to be completed within 18 months. The governor said the project was part of his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development and economic growth in the state.

He said the road, which had been in deplorable condition for over 15 years, had caused untold hardship and loss of lives and property to the people of Abia and neighbouring states. He said his government decided to engage Julius Berger because of their track record of delivering quality and durable projects.

He said, “We are here today to witness the flag-off of one of the most important road projects in our state. The Aba-Port Harcourt road is not just a road; it is a lifeline for our people. It is a road that connects us to our neighbours and to the rest of the country. It is a road that facilitates trade and commerce, which are the mainstays of our economy. It is a road that has been neglected for too long, and we have decided to change that narrative.”

He added, “We have chosen Julius Berger as our partner in this project because we believe they have the capacity, the experience, and the reputation to deliver a world-class road that will stand the test of time. We have also ensured that the contract sum is realistic and transparent, and we will ensure that every kobo is accounted for. We are not here to play politics with development; we are here to make a difference in the lives of our people.”

The governor appealed to the people of Abia, especially those living and doing business along the road corridor, to cooperate with the contractor and government officials during the period of construction. He assured them that adequate measures had been put in place to minimise disruption and inconvenience.

He also thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for his support and approval of the project, as well as other stakeholders who contributed to its realisation. He said he was optimistic that the project would be completed on schedule and within budget.

The flag-off ceremony was witnessed by dignitaries from within and outside the state, including former Senate President and Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara, who commended Governor Otti for his courage and vision. He said the governor had secured his second term mandate through his superlative performance so far.