Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti has officially kicked off the reconstruction of the renowned “Igwu Bridge,” also known as the “Nmuri Bridge,” located in Abam Onyerubi, Arochukwu Local Government Area.
During the ceremony at the project site, Governor Otti, who titled his speech “The Omenuko Bridge: Another Jinx Broken,” explained that although the project was initially a Federal Government initiative, his administration took action after discovering that claims of its prior award were untrue.
The Governor announced that the project would be completed within nine months, assuring the people that every project his administration undertakes is fully funded before it begins.
In his speech, Governor Otti also emphasized his administration’s focus on infrastructure and community development, reaffirming his commitment to the well-being of the people, regardless of their social standing or any bureaucratic challenges that may arise.
Addressing the two key requests from the President-General of Abam Town Union, Governor Otti directed the Commissioner for Health to immediately initiate plans for the establishment of a Healthcare Center in the community as well as instructed the Commissioner for Works to begin the process of procuring and awarding the 23-kilometer Abam Ring Road project to two contractors.
The state Commissioner for Works, Mr. Otumchere Oti, highlighted that the bridge had long been a tool for political exploitation but is now being reconstructed to serve its true purpose. He described the single-lane Omenuko Bridge as a critical link between Abia Central and Abia North Senatorial Zones, stressing that the project would enhance traffic flow, stimulate economic activities, and foster social connectivity.
Several dignitaries, including Chief Ibe Okara Osonwa, the Member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Professor Kenneth Kalu, the Secretary to the State Government, and Chief Agwu U. Agwu, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at Abia State University, expressed their appreciation for Governor Otti’s efforts, noting that this project, along with others, has given their people a renewed sense of belonging.
Captain Chibuike Usim, President-General of the Abam Onyerubi Improvement Union, spoke on behalf of the community, emphasizing that the single-lane Omenuko Bridge, which had served the community for over 70 years, was a lifeline.
He lauded Governor Otti for embarking on this crucial project, which he believes will play a significant role in transforming the state’s narrative.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including the Deputy Governor, Chief Ikechukwu Emetu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, major stakeholders including Chief James Ume, Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba, Dr Christopher Okoro among other notable personalities.
