Abia Govt to Flag Off Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road October 24

The Abia State Government has announced that the official flag-off for the construction of the 25-kilometre Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene Road will take place on Friday, October 24, 2025.

Also scheduled for the same day is the flag-off of the 13.1km Ariam–Usaka Ring Road in Ikwuano Local Government Area, both projects expected to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth in the state’s central corridor.

Governor Alex Otti, who made the announcement, stated that the roads form part of a broader infrastructure rollout designed to open up rural areas, improve access to markets, and lay the foundation for long-term economic transformation.

“These roads are strategic to our vision of linking communities and creating new opportunities for commerce, agriculture, and industry,” the Governor said.

Similarly, the State Executive Council also approved contracts for three other key projects: 9.35km Ihechiowa–Arochukwu Ring Road, 4.9km Isieketa–Mba Itungwa–Mgbedeala Road in Isiala Ngwa South, and 3.72km Ogidi–Umuala Eziama Ntigha Road in Isiala Ngwa North.

These projects are part of what the administration calls an “infrastructural revolution,” aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the state’s rural communities.

Additionally, Governor Otti announced that Abia State has successfully concluded negotiations to acquire a 60% stake in the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) assets within the state. The acquisition was approved by Interstate Electrics, the core investor in EEDC, and will give the state government operational control over electricity generation, regulation, and distribution in eight “ring-fenced” local government areas within Abia Central and Abia North senatorial zones.

Describing the deal as “transformative,” Governor Otti emphasised that it aligns with his administration’s strategic focus on electricity as a key driver of industrialisation, small business growth, and job creation.

Further demonstrating its commitment to energy access, the State Executive Council also approved the restoration of electricity to Ohafia, a community that has been in darkness for several years. This development is expected to boost economic activities and support the operations of the Greater Ohafia Development Authority.

Meanwhile, Abia will join the international community to mark World Food Day on October 15, 2025, with an event at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia. The theme of this year’s celebration, “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” highlights the importance of collaboration in building resilient food systems.

Governor Otti called on all stakeholders in the agricultural sector to seize the opportunity to work together to end hunger, improve nutrition, and ensure food security across the state.