…Flags Off 11-km Obehie-Owaza Road
By Steve Oko
UMUAHIA – The Federal Government has approved the establishment of a modular refinery inside the Abia Industrial and Innovative Park (AIIP), located in the oil-rich Owaza, Ukwa West Local Government Area.
Governor Alex Otti disclosed this while flagging off the construction of the 11.1-kilometre Obehie-Umudobia-Owaza road, a project aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the region.
Speaking at the event, Otti emphasized that the road project is not just about access but about reviving economic assets, opening new opportunities, and restoring the dreams of the past.
“The reconstruction of this road is about more than just infrastructure; it is about reviving dormant economic assets and reigniting the aspirations that once defined this region,” he said.
He assured that the project would be completed within a year, and upon completion, it would enhance the marketability and viability of AIIP.
Governor Otti also announced that the Federal Government has approved the construction of a modular refinery within AIIP.
“I am pleased to inform you that just a few days ago, we received approval for a modular refinery to be built inside AIIP by H.I.S. Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited.
He reassured the people that the Abia State Government would provide full support for the refinery project, which is expected to accelerate industrialization and economic growth in the area.
Otti declared that the era of neglect for Ukwa people is over, stating that Ukwa, as the only oil-producing region in Abia, must not be left behind.
“Today, we officially declare that the era of neglect for Ukwa and its communities is over. Your land will yield its best, and the oil in your land will bring prosperity.”
He promised that his administration would work with ASOPADEC, NDDC, and other intervention agencies to correct years of political exclusion and underdevelopment.
In response to community requests, the Governor assured that the Umuzike-Obokwe-Ngwaiyiekwe road has been approved in the 2025 budget and would soon be flagged off.
He also pledged to restore electricity in Asa land before the end of March, directing the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr. Ikechukwu Monday, to assess the requirements for power restoration.
Governor Otti reiterated that his administration has declared a state of emergency in the water sector, assuring that efforts were underway to resolve the water crisis across Abia State.
He urged the people to support the contractors and cooperate with the government to ensure smooth execution of development projects.
Community Leaders Praise Otti’s Commitment
Stakeholders and political leaders from the area, including:
Hon. Godwin Adiele (Member, Abia State House of Assembly)
Mr. Philemon Ogbonna (Commissioner for Environment)
Pastor Dike Nwankwo (Mayor of Ukwa-West LGA)
…expressed their gratitude to the Governor for prioritizing the development of Ukwa land.
Commissioner for Works, Otumchere Oti, described the Obehie-Owaza road as a gateway into Asa and AIIP, stating that it would create direct and indirect jobs and attract investment.
Similarly, ASOPADEC General Manager, Venerable Joshua Onyeike, lauded Otti for allowing the commission to effectively carry out its mandate.
Prominent community figures, including Dame Victoria Akanwa (former legislator) and Pastor Ralph Egbu (former SSG), commended the Governor’s infrastructural strides.
President-General of the Asa Development Union, Elder Goodluck Nwauju, highlighted Otti’s commitment to the people, citing the recovery of over 10,000 hectares of land previously allocated for the abandoned Enyimba Economic City project.
Speakers at the event hailed Otti’s leadership, describing him as “God-sent” and endorsing him for a second term.
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