Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has officially commissioned the rehabilitation of the 19.1-kilometer Itungwa-Mgboko-Amaise-Amairi-Omoba-Ahiaba-Nkwo-Elechi Road, a key infrastructure project aimed at transforming the rural economic landscape of the state. The ceremony took place on Wednesday at Omoba in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area (LGA).
In his address, Governor Otti expressed his administration’s commitment to enhancing rural infrastructure to stimulate economic activities across Abia. He noted that the project is part of a World Bank-supported initiative under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) and represents the pilot phase of RAAMP projects in the state.
Otti stated, “These roads shall, therefore, be constructed to very high standards to support the anticipated increase in economic activities in the communities.” He also announced the disbursement of N600 million as counterpart funding for RAAMP and an additional N2.6 billion to ensure effective project execution and minimize delays throughout the project cycle.
To ensure the ongoing maintenance of rural roads, Otti revealed that the government has established the Rural Access Road Agency and is planning to set up a State Road Fund to support timely road maintenance and sustain the benefits of the RAAMP initiative.
Aminu Mohammed, the National Coordinator of RAAMP, described the project as “a pathway to progress and a bridge to prosperity in rural communities.” He emphasized the commitment of the Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank, the French Development Agency, and other stakeholders, to addressing rural infrastructural challenges.
Blessing Felix, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, highlighted the road’s potential impact on stimulating socioeconomic development in the benefitting LGAs, urging local communities to take ownership of the project for its long-term sustainability.
Christian Soroibe, the contractor for the project, confirmed that, despite an 18-month delivery timeline, his team aims to complete the project within 12 months, ensuring high-quality work through significant equipment and manpower deployment.
Local leaders, including the Transition Committee Chairmen of the two LGAs, Eric Egwuibe and Elelenta Elele, voiced their support for the project, emphasizing its importance in boosting the economic development of their areas.
Chukwuma Azodo, President of the Cooperative Motor Union in the state, highlighted the anticipated improvements in vehicular movement, stating that the project will facilitate easier access for commercial transport operators and help farmers transport their produce to markets efficiently.
This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing rural infrastructure in Abia State, aiming to foster economic growth and improve the quality of life for residents in the benefitting communities.