FIC Report (Abia State) – After years of abandonment and neglect, the Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway, a critical Trunk A road linking Abia and Akwa Ibom States, is finally set for a total overhaul.
The long-suffering corridor, notorious for its deplorable condition, has now received Presidential approval for reconstruction.
This development that has rekindled hope for thousands of road users and border communities.
Governor Alex C. Otti, OFR, made this disclosure while flagging off the reconstruction of the Umuahia–Ikwuano–Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway, commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting the state approval to intervene on the failed portions of the federal road.
Governor Otti noted that the directive from the Presidency is a “bold and compassionate gesture” that aligns with the federal government’s renewed commitment to infrastructure renewal across the nation.
He further explained that the project spanning a 25-kilometre stretch , would be completed within 18 months, with provisions for solar-powered streetlights to enhance security and stimulate social and economic activities along the corridor.
“We have endured this hardship for too long,” the Governor said. “This road has caused our people untold suffering, but today marks the beginning of a new story — one of restoration, hope, and progress. I urge our people to support the contractors and protect this project as our collective investment.”
The flag-off event later transitioned to Obeama Ariam Model Primary School in Ikwuano LGA, where Governor Otti officially launched the construction of the 13.5-kilometre Ariam–Usaka Ring Road — another major infrastructure initiative aimed at opening up the agricultural heartland of Abia.
Delivering his address titled “Breaking Barriers,” Governor Otti inspired the crowd with words that reflected both vision and resolve:
“Success in the development race requires clear thinking, the courage of dynamic execution, and the resilience of a warrior’s spirit,” he said. “Many would rather stick with the comfort of the familiar than strike out on a new path. But the secret to victory lies in the will to dare and the conviction that nothing is impossible for those who refuse to yield to frustration or delay.”
Governor Otti dedicated the day to the people of Ikwuano, expressing gratitude for their steadfast support during the struggle for a new political order in Abia.
He declared that democracy must translate into tangible development, emphasizing that the dual flag-offs , the Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway and the Ariam–Usaka Ring Road — symbolize an end to “the politics of deceit and failed promises.”
“We have come to put a permanent end to the misery of bad roads,” he affirmed. “By reconstructing the Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road, we are ending years of agony for our commuters. And with the Ariam–Usaka Ring Road, we are unlocking new doors of prosperity for our people.”
Governor Otti revealed that the Ariam–Usaka Ring Road is designed as an economic enabler, particularly for farmers and entrepreneurs, as it connects major agricultural belts to urban markets in Abia and Akwa Ibom States.
He projected that upon completion, the project would trigger an increase in agricultural output, agro-allied investments, and youth employment.
“By next year, more people will appreciate the magnificence of Ariam’s natural palm wine because bad roads will no longer be a barrier to its distribution,” he said with a smile. “We expect an explosion in job numbers, reverse migration, and real wealth for our people.”
Governor Otti also disclosed plans to commence more road projects in the 2026 budget cycle to connect communities across Oloko, Oboro, Ibere, Ariam, Bende, and Umuahia, while assuring residents of progress in the state’s electricity sector.
“We are setting up a ring-fenced electricity market for Umuahia and beyond,” he explained. “With our accepted offer to buy out Interstate Electric in EEDC, the next 18 months will bring great transformation to the Abia Electricity Market.”
In his closing remarks, the Governor lauded the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Don Otumchere Oti, and his team for their professionalism, urging the people to cooperate with them and monitor project performance.
“This government will not entertain excuses for failure. Every kobo spent must deliver full value,” Otti stressed. “Together, we shall transform Abia into a model of service delivery, infrastructure renewal, and shared prosperity.”
The dual flag-offs mark a significant turnaround for Abia State’s infrastructure narrative — transforming long-forgotten roads into arteries of development. With federal and state synergy now visibly aligned, the once-abandoned Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Trunk A highway stands as a testament to what purposeful governance can achieve when vision meets action.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify HOC, FIC
Umuahia, Abia State October 25, 2025.
