The Deputy Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, Emmanuel Ibok Essien, has commended Governor Alex Otti for transforming Aba and other major cities in Abia State in uncommon urban infrastructures development and sanitation.
Essien, Founder, Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, noted that a drive through Aba and Umuahia on a journey to neighbouring Rivers State, now leaves the traveler with delight on the scale urban renewal Otti’s administration has carried out in Abia just over two years in office.
Senator Essien observed saying;
"The turnaround of Aba urban roads and drainages, including reconstruction of once dilapidated Port Harcourt Road, now modernised into a six-lane carriageway with streetlights, roundabouts, restoring a major economic artery abandoned for decades.
"I was part of the team of Engineers that supervised the original construction of Aba Urban Roads and Drainages by MCC, included the Port Harcourt Road in Aba between 1979 and 1983, when Abia was under old Imo State and governed by the late Sam Mbakwe, the first elected civilian governor of the State.
"Since that period, the roads and much of Aba’s infrastructure suffered prolonged neglect, making the current expansion and upgrade a landmark intervention that has restored connectivity and eased movement across the commercial city."
He acknowledged the remodelling of the popular Ariaria International Market by Governor Otti, noting the project has repositioned Aba as a commercial hub of international standard.
"The construction of several roads in Umuahia, evacuation of long-standing refuse dumps and the improved sanitation across the State among other efforts have returned Aba and other urban centres to functional, livable conditions", he added.
Essien called for sustained public support for Governor Otti, noting that development thrives best when leaders are encouraged by the people.
He cherished the synergy between Governor Otti and his Akwa Ibom counterpart, Pastor Umo Eno, saying that both leaders have demonstrated a shared commitment to urban renewal and people-centric governance, adding both governors deserve collective support in their respective states.
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