Abia governor pledges Mmam bridge rehabilitation
Gov. Alex Otti of Abia has pledged to rehabilitate the Mmam Bridge in Mbala Isuochi, Umunneochi Local Government Area.
Otti gave the pledge on Friday during a civic reception organised by Umunneochi residents at Peace Secondary School, Amuda Isuochi.
The governor said the project had been captured in the 2026 budget following an assessment ordered by his administration.
“I have noted your comments about the Mmam Bridge. This matter came up the last time I visited, and I directed our officials to assess it.
“I am sure it was based on that assessment that the project was included in the 2026 budget.
“Since it is in the budget, be assured that we will execute it,” he said.
Otti acknowledged the community’s appreciation for government interventions, including the upgrading of 19 primary healthcare centres.
He also cited the approval of a General Hospital for Umunneochi, road projects and investments in education among the administration’s achievements.
The governor said his administration remained committed to improving residents’ welfare through sustained investments in critical sectors.
He said the free education policy had removed financial barriers to learning, adding that some students had stopped his convoy to express gratitude.
Otti also announced plans to extend Abia’s electric bus transport scheme to Umunneochi following the arrival of 20 new electric buses.
He disclosed that a new transport route linking Umuahia, Okigwe and Abia State University, Uturu, had also been approved.
The governor commended residents for supporting efforts to tackle insecurity by providing timely information to security agencies.
He warned criminal elements to abandon their activities or leave the area, assuring residents that the government would sustain its campaign against crime.
Otti appreciated political leaders and stakeholders in Umunneochi for supporting his administration with their time, resources and commitment.
He assured residents that his government would continue creating an enabling environment for development across Abia.
The governor welcomed new members into the Labour Party, describing it as a party that guaranteed equal opportunities without discrimination.
He urged the new members to participate actively in party affairs, assuring them of equal rights and responsibilities.
Otti said his administration would continue delivering development projects equitably across the state’s 17 local government areas.
He said such development would be guided by the needs of residents, irrespective of political or geographical considerations.
In separate speeches, Mr Amobi Ogah, representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, and Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike commended Otti’s achievements.
They described him as a visionary and result-oriented leader whose performance had earned him public support.
The speakers said Otti’s achievements had also made him deserving of another term in office in 2027.
Similarly, Mr Chaka Chukwumerije, Commissioner for Lands and Housing, and Chief Sunny Afurobi, Umunneochi LGA Chairman, described Otti as grassroots-oriented.
They commended the government for improving healthcare, executing road projects, upgrading educational infrastructure and addressing insecurity.
They expressed confidence that Umunneochi residents would support Otti’s re-election bid in the 2027 general election.
Alhaji Abdullahi Buba, representing the Northern community, said Umunneochi had become more peaceful following government efforts to tackle insecurity.
Buba described Otti as a leader who fulfilled promises through visible projects and impactful governance.
The ceremony featured the admission of new members into the Labour Party and the presentation of the party’s flag to the new entrants. (NAN)
