IN his speech at the flag-off of the Ohafia-Arochukwu Highway reconstruction on August, 28, 2024, at Old Soldier Junction, Ebem Ohafia in Ohafia LGA of Abia State, Governor Alex Chioma Otti, presented a comprehensive and , compelling vision for a new Abia State. He emphasized the need for collective action, economic development, transparency, and accountability, highlighting the importance of infrastructure in driving growth and prosperity.
_*A New Era of Governance*_
Governor Otti’s position as highlighted in his speech marks a new era of governance in Abia State, characterized by a commitment to trust, problem-solving, and economic advancement.
He acknowledged past failures and emphasized the need for a new approach, demonstrating a willingness to take ownership of the state’s challenges and drive positive change.
This commitment to trust is critical in building confidence among stakeholders and ensuring that the state government delivers on its promises.
*_Economic Development and Growth_*
The governor highlighted the critical role of infrastructure in driving economic development and growth. He emphasized the importance of the Ohafia-Arochukwu Highway, which connects several communities and towns, and its potential to stimulate economic activity.
By investing in infrastructure, the state government aims to create new opportunities for businesses, farmers, and individuals, driving economic growth and improving the lives of its citizens.
The governor also highlighted the potential for the road to unlock new economic opportunities, including:
– Agriculture: By providing access to markets and enabling the transportation of goods, the road will stimulate agricultural production and increase economic activity.
– Commerce: The road will facilitate trade and commerce, connecting communities and towns and enabling the exchange of goods and services.
– Tourism: The road will provide access to tourist destinations, such as the Osu gwodo gwodo Waterfall and the Ibini Ukpabi Shrine, promoting tourism and economic growth.
– Industrialization and manufacturing: The road will enable the transportation of goods and raw materials, stimulating industrialization, manufacturing and economic growth.
*_Transparency and Accountability_*
Governor Otti’s commitment to transparency and accountability was evident in his speech. He assured stakeholders that the project would be executed with integrity and that the state government would work closely with the Federal Ministry of Works to ensure its success.
This approach is critical in building trust and ensuring that the project delivers its intended benefits. The governor also emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that the state government would ensure that funds are applied strictly to the execution of projects and programs tied to the state’s economic and social wellbeing.
*_Creating Opportunities_*
The governor emphasized the need to create opportunities in every part of the state. He highlighted the importance of incentives that encourage individuals to stay back and contribute to the development of their communities.
By creating new pathways of opportunities, the state government aims to drive economic growth and improve the lives of its citizens. The governor also highlighted the potential for the road to create new opportunities for education, stating that the Abia State College of Education (Technical) Arochukwu would begin to experience a new lease of life.
*_Conclusion_*
Governor Alex Otti in conclusion emphasized that the flag-off of Ohafia-Arochukwu Highway reconstruction project presented a comprehensive and compelling vision for a new Abia State.
His emphasis on collective action, economic development, transparency, and accountability sets the tone for a new era of growth and progress.
By working together, stakeholders can create a brighter future for the state and its citizens. The governor’s commitment to trust, problem-solving, and economic advancement demonstrates a willingness to take ownership of the state’s challenges and drive positive change. As the state embarks on this new era, it is critical that stakeholders support the governor and ensure that the state government delivers on its promises.
Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the SSA(Public Affairs) to the Governor of Abia State.