Governor Otti Charges Abians To Protect State’s Infrastructure

In a bid to ensure the longevity of the state’s infrastructure, Governor Alex Otti has called on Abians to take ownership and protect the various facilities his administration has put in place. The governor made this charge during the commissioning of several projects in the Abia Central Senatorial Zone on June 12, 2025.

Projects Commissioned

The projects commissioned include three Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) retrofitted at Owerinta Isialangwa South, Amibo Umuahia South, and Ekeoba Umuahia North under Project Ekwueme. Additionally, the governor commissioned the 8.3 kilometers Isieketa-Obikabia Road in Isialangwa South LGA and 1.5 IBB Way in Umuahia North LGA.

Governor’s Plea

Governor Otti emphasized the importance of protecting public infrastructure, stating, “Ensure that everything that we are putting in place, the infrastructure, the roads, the equipment we are putting in those primary healthcare centres are secured. Because there is no security better than the security you provide.” He also assured that his administration would deal with anyone found vandalizing public properties.

New Projects Announced

The governor also announced plans to reconstruct the Ikot-Ekpene Federal Road, which links the IBB way. Despite it being a federal road, Governor Otti stated that his administration would take responsibility for its maintenance, citing the impact it would have on the lives of the Abia people.

Commissioners’ Remarks

The Commissioners for Health and Works, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche and Engr. Otumchere Oti praised the governor’s initiative in retrofitting PHCs and creating access roads. They emphasized the need for beneficiaries to protect these facilities.

Impact of the Projects

The General Manager, of Abia State Debt Management Office, Dr. Kingsley Nwaigburu, highlighted that the governor approved the retrofitting of 64 PHCs in Abia Central alone. He noted that the project is impactful, providing every ward in Abia State with a functional Primary Healthcare Centre.

Community Reaction

The Traditional Ruler of Ekeoba Kingdom, Ohuhu, Eze Ambassador Iheanyichukwu Nwokenna, described the retrofitting of Primary Healthcare Centres as a new dawn in the state. He praised Governor Otti’s resolve to leave a lasting impact on the state.

A New Era for Abia

The commissioning ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chinese Consul-General, and featured cultural displays and special presentations. As Abia State continues to develop, the governor’s charge to protect the state’s infrastructure serves as a reminder of the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring the longevity of these projects.