Abia State Governor Alex Otti disclosed his administration’s achievements and ongoing initiatives during his recent interaction with journalists in Umuahia.
Governor Otti said since assuming office, his administration has overseen the complete reconstruction of 90 roads that were in various states of disrepair.
These projects were executed through direct labour under the Ministry of Works, aligning with the governor’s Zero Pothole Policy.
Additionally, 16 roads have been reconstructed and inaugurated, with another 16 currently undergoing work, covering approximately 165 kilometres across different senatorial districts, he said.
“All the 90 roads were done by our Ministry of Works by direct labour, and some of them fit into our Zero Pothole Policy.
“We have reconstructed and rebuilt and inaugurated 16 roads.
“We have also worked on another 16 roads at the moment and the total length of the 16 roads is about 165 kilometers running through the different senatorial districts of the state,” he detailed.
Otti stressed the significance of infrastructure, adding that the long-abandoned Ohanku Road project had commenced with rigid pavement technology, crucial for enhancing connectivity to settlements in Aba.
He outlined plans to extend road interventions to every local government within the next 12 months, identifying strategic roads for immediate attention in the upcoming year.
While acknowledging the fiscal challenges posed by rapid road construction, Otti disclosed plans to secure additional funding from the 2024 budget through virement, ensuring sustained progress in road infrastructure development.
He also addressed healthcare reforms, with ongoing efforts to rehabilitate general hospitals and primary healthcare centres across the state, prioritising operational efficiency and service delivery.
In education, the governor highlighted efforts to remodel public schools gradually, aiming to create conducive learning environments despite infrastructure deficits inherited from previous administrations.
He stressed the administration’s commitment to agricultural development, citing recent initiatives like sending Abia residents for mechanised agricultural training to bolster food security.
Regarding security, Otti condemned the recent killing of soldiers in Aba and pledged stringent measures to apprehend perpetrators, highlighting the government’s determination to combat crime and safeguard residents.
He concluded by affirming improvements in workers’ welfare, including regular salary payments and ongoing efforts to address outstanding issues like promotions and leave allowances.