President Tinubu to Commission Revitalized Aba-Port Harcourt Road in Abia State After 15 Years of Neglect

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to visit Abia State on May 23 to commission the newly rebuilt 6.5-kilometer Port Harcourt Road in Aba. This vital road, which had languished in a state of disrepair for over 15 years, has been restored through the efforts of Governor Alex Otti’s administration. The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in improving the infrastructure and connectivity within the region.

The announcement came from the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, who spoke to journalists during an inspection of the damaged Osisioma axis of the 56-kilometer Abia Tower of Peace, Umuahia to Rail Flyover, Aba section of the Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway. This section is part of another federal government initiative aimed at upgrading critical roadways. Umahi expressed satisfaction that the Port Harcourt Road in Aba had finally been rehabilitated after years of neglect, highlighting the quality of work achieved by the Abia State government under Governor Otti.

Minister Umahi also took the opportunity to commend Governor Otti, noting the personal pride he felt given their family ties. “You know Otti is my relation and doing good while in office runs in our veins, so, I’m not surprised at what he is doing, I would have if he is not doing well,” he remarked. The minister’s endorsement underscored the strong leadership and commitment to development displayed by the state government.

While celebrating the success of the Aba road project, the Minister addressed concerns about damage observed along the Osisioma stretch of the Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway. The damage, covering roughly two kilometers, was reportedly caused by the contractor responsible for installing underground drainage on behalf of the Abia State government. Minister Umahi directed the Controller of Works in Abia to halt the contractor’s activities immediately and to report the issue to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja for urgent resolution. He assured that discussions with Governor Otti would be held to find the best path forward and ensure that the damage is properly addressed.

The Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway itself is a major federal project that began reconstruction in 2013. Despite the challenges faced along the route, the Minister reaffirmed that the project remains on track for completion by November this year. Upon completion, President Tinubu is expected to commission the expressway, further cementing his administration’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s transport infrastructure.

The upcoming visit by President Tinubu to Abia State represents not only the commissioning of a long-awaited road but also a symbol of renewed hope for infrastructural development in the region. The rebuilding of the Port Harcourt Road in Aba stands as a testament to Governor Otti’s administration and its dedication to addressing long-standing issues that have hampered growth and accessibility for many years.

With federal and state governments working in tandem, the outlook for improved road networks in Abia and the wider southeast region is promising. Both projects, the Port Harcourt Road and the Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway, are poised to significantly enhance trade, mobility, and economic activity once fully operational. The combined efforts highlight the growing synergy between local leadership and federal authorities aimed at delivering critical infrastructure that meets the needs of citizens.

President Tinubu’s visit will not only mark the official commissioning of these projects but will also underscore the federal government’s recognition of Abia State’s progress and the importance of collaborative governance in driving development. For residents and stakeholders, the improved roads bring renewed optimism and a tangible step forward toward greater connectivity and prosperity in the state.