Governor Alex Otti: 24 Months of Road Revolution in Abia State

Oluebube A. Chukwu

In just 24 months in office, Governor Alex Otti has embarked on a sweeping infrastructure revolution across Abia State, rewriting the narrative of bad roads and broken promises that once defined the State. From the bustling streets of Aba to the rural expanses of Umunneochi, road construction and rehabilitation projects have become hallmarks of his administration’s drive for economic rejuvenation and social transformation.

In Ohafia Local Government Area, the administration commenced the reconstruction of the long-abandoned 41.4 km Ohafia–Arochukwu Highway in August 2024. The project, despite being a federal responsibility, was taken on by the state government, with Governor Otti highlighting its strategic importance in connecting over 60 communities and fostering agriculture, tourism, and commerce. Reconstruction of Amaekpu Ohafia Ring Road and other rural roads in the area.

Also in Ohafia, the 46.3 km Umuahia–Uzuakoli–Abiriba–Ohafia road, which stretches through Bende and parts of Umuahia, has been reconstructed and commissioned, significantly improving travel between northern and southern parts of the state. Complementing these highways are smaller but impactful community-level roads undertaken by the Greater Ohafia Development Authority under the supervision of Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu.

In Ukwa East, a major milestone was reached with the flag-off of the 12.6 km Ohanze–Ntighauzo–Obete–Umuoha–Oberete–Akirika Obu Road. The dual-LGA project, shared with Obingwa, is considered economically strategic for boosting regional connectivity and market access.

Isiala Ngwa North saw the reconstruction of key urban roads in Nbawsi, the LGA headquarters, with improved asphalt surfaces and drainage channels transforming daily life for residents and businesses alike.

In Isiala Ngwa South, the Itungwa–Mgboko–Amaise–Amairi–Omoba–Ahiaba–Nkwo–Elechi Road was commissioned in October 2024. The 19.1 km stretch, supported by the World Bank under RAAMP, links seven communities and is expected to greatly stimulate rural economic activities and reduce post-harvest losses.

Ugwunagbo LGA benefited from the installation of solar-powered street lights in Obegbu Town Road and its environs, a project designed to enhance public safety and improve nocturnal visibility in a previously underserved area.

Similarly, in Osisioma, the rehabilitation of the the Amavo Ukwu Autonomous Community and surrounding neighborhoods were equipped with solar lighting, addressing both security and energy needs in a sustainable manner and the ongoing rehabilitation of Osisioma flyover. Reconstruction of Ekeakpara Road a massive project for rural dwellers.

Obingwa shares in the benefits of the Ohanze–Akirika Obu road project with Ukwa East, while also being served by the 19.1 km Itungwa–Elechi Road. Together, these developments aim to dismantle infrastructural bottlenecks that have hindered economic progress in the area.

In Aba North, one of the most transformational projects is the ongoing reconstruction of the 6.7 km Port Harcourt Road, which had become a symbol of governmental neglect. Now under active redevelopment, the road is slated to become a major commercial artery, easing traffic and enhancing trade logistics.

Reconstruction of Ajiwe Street, an adjoining street off Immaculate Road and directly across St. Jude Catholic Church, to Kamalu Road to bridge near Church of the Latter-Day Saints Aba.

Umuahia North has seen the rehabilitation and commissioning of the 1.3 km Dozie Way through direct labour, saving costs and fast-tracking delivery. Also the most dangerous portions along Ikot-Ekpene federal road has been addressed. Reconstruction of World Bank Roads, Agbama Road and Nkata Ibeku-Ahia Eke Road. In addition, the strategic Ossaa Road has being reconstructed and dualized to improve intra-city connectivity and support growing traffic demands in the capital city, the Zero–pothole of Umuahia Town and the ongoing Dualization of Express Tower– Umuokpara–Onuimo Road.

In Ikwuano LGA, Governor Alex Otti’s administration has launched key road infrastructure projects to boost connectivity and economic development. Notable among them is the 13.9 km Onuinyang–Okporoenyi–Oboro–Ikwuano Road, flagged off in January 2025 to support agricultural transport. Additional projects include the 4.32 km Orpet–Umuafai–Lodu–Ahiaeke Road, the 3.79 km Ahiaeke–Okwuta–Bende Road, and the proposed construction of the historic Ofeke–Azueke–Ndume–Ibeku Road, which links Ikwuano with Umuahia North and Bende LGAs. These efforts aim to enhance rural accessibility and stimulate local economies across the region.

In Bende, the extensive Umuahia–Uzuakoli–Akara–Alayi–Abiriba road, measuring over 46 km, has significantly improved mobility and integration among several communities, strengthening regional commerce and social bonds.

In Arochukwu, the administration has undertaken emergency repairs on the Amuvi–Amakohia Road and has launched the reconstruction of the Amuvi–Ndi Okereke–Ozu Abam route, reconstruction of famous Omenuko bridge to enhance safety and accessiblity within the LGA’s hilly terrains.

In Umunneochi, the reconstruction of the Ngodo– Umuaku– Mbala Road will bring long-awaited relief to residents of this agrarian belt, bridging the rural-urban divide.

Further, Isuikwuato has seen progress with the rehabilitation of the Nunya–Eluama Road, a project aimed at improving rural accessibility and easing movement for both residents and farmers.

Across Aba South, the rehabilitation of key commercial roads such as Emelogu, Cemetery Market Roads Phases 1 & 2, and Shalom Road has restored the city’s reputation as a regional trade hub. Strategic upgrades have also been made to Jubilee, Queen’s Street, and Umuocham roads, giving Aba a new lease on life.

Governor Otti’s administration also launched the dualization of the Umuikaa Junction to Umuene Road and the Owerrinta Bridge–Umuikaa Junction in Isiala Ngwa South, aimed at easing traffic and reducing travel time.

In all, Abia State under Governor Otti has recorded the completion of 90 roads, with dozens more ongoing. His “Zero Pothole Policy” is fast becoming a reality as every local government in the state benefits from the sweeping wave of infrastructure renewal. His administration’s focus on quality, durability, and transparency marks a sharp departure from past practices, setting Abia on a path to sustainable development.

Oluebube A. Chukwu PhD, writes from Umuahia.