Protect Abia State Infrastructure – Governor Otti’s Charge to Residents

Community Ownership Must Secure Infrastructure

Umuahia, June 12, 2025 

Governor Alex Otti has appealed to all Abia State residents to protect and maintain public infrastructure built under his administration, stressing that no security is more effective than community vigilance.

Newly Commissioned Projects in Abia Central

Governor Otti spoke at the commissioning ceremony held at Ibeku High School field, Umuahia, unveiling major developments across three Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the Central Senatorial Zone. The launched projects include:

Refurbished Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) at Owerinta (Isialangwa South), Amibo (Umuahia South), and Ekeoba (Umuahia North) under the Project Ekwueme initiative.

The 8.3 km Isieketa–Obikabia Road in Isialangwa South LGA.

A 1.5 km extension of IBB Way in Umuahia North LGA .

Community Vigilance: The First Line of Defense

Governor Otti emphasized:

“Ensure that everything that we are putting in place, the infrastructure, roads, equipment in primary healthcare centres, are secured. Because there is no security better than the security you provide.”  

He urged citizens to remain alert and report vandalism, guaranteeing swift government action against offenders.

Expansion Beyond State Roads: The Ikot-Ekpene Project

Though classified as a federal road, the Ikot-Ekpene Federal Road linking to IBB Way requires urgent reconstruction. Otti has directed the Commissioner for Works to begin repairs. He highlighted that all roads in Abia—federal or state—serve Abians first, and will be maintained regardless of jurisdiction.

Commitment to Health and Infrastructure Growth

Governor Otti reaffirmed his dedication to delivering and commissioning all 200 retrofitted or newly built PHCs. He is committed to ongoing road constructions, seeking to eliminate infrastructural deficits across the state.

Remarks from Health & Works Commissioners

Prof. Enoch Uche (Health) and Engr. Otumchere Oti (Works) commended Otti’s vision for world-class healthcare standards and strategic road networks, and challenged communities to safeguard these assets .

Dr. Kingsley Nwaigburu, GM of Debt Management Office & Project Ekwueme Coordinator, shared that 64 PHCs alone are being improved in the Central zone—clearly tangible progress “not an audio project”.

Community Sentiment: A New Dawn for Ekeoba

Eze Ambassador Iheanyichukwu Nwokenna, Traditional Ruler of Ekeoba Kingdom, praised the PHC upgrades, calling them “a new dawn” and evidence of Otti’s commitment to leaving an indelible legacy.

International Participation & Community Celebrations

The event was attended by the Chinese Consul-General and a host of dignitaries. Cultural displays and special community presentations underscored the public’s pride and partnership in these developments.

Why This Matters

• Community-led security helps reduce vandalism and ensures infrastructure longevity.
• Road rehabilitation, including federal routes, enhances traffic flow and regional connectivity.
• Upgraded PHCs significantly improve access to healthcare and public welfare.
• Federal‑level investments in state infrastructure show a unified approach to development.

Governor Alex Otti’s message is clear: Infrastructure belongs to every Abia resident, and its sustainability depends on collective ownership. He commits to deploying public funds wisely—building healthcare centres and roads, and urging citizens to stand guard over these public assets.