How Otti’s Reforms Are Transforming Abia State, Says Chief Press Secretary

Abia State is undergoing significant reforms in healthcare and infrastructure under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, signalling what officials describe as a “new dawn” for the state.

In a statement released today, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, detailed the administration’s efforts to improve public services and enhance the quality of life for Abia residents.

“A new dawn is here in Abia State. Governor Alex Otti is intentional about ensuring access to quality healthcare delivery,” Njoku stated. He pointed to the governor’s swift action in upgrading and reaccrediting the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), which had lost its accreditation under the previous administration.

Njoku emphasized that improving infrastructure around the hospital has been a key priority for the government.

“The interconnectivity of roads and access points is a sight to behold, making accessibility to ABSUTH seamless,” he remarked. Key roads like University Road, College Road, and Green Avenue have been repaired, linking the hospital to important areas such as Afule Market and Osisioma Flyover.

The governor’s reforms are not limited to roadwork. Njoku explained that healthcare professionals at ABSUTH, who had been left without pay for over two years by the previous administration, are now receiving their salaries on time.

“The governor has begun clearing the salary backlog and is ensuring that staff are paid before the end of every month,” Njoku noted. He added that the hospital is currently hiring additional staff to meet the growing demands for healthcare services.

Njoku also highlighted the governor’s focus on extensive road rehabilitation projects throughout the state. “There is zero tolerance for potholes,” he said, pointing to major roads in Aba, including Ohanku Road and Port-Harcourt Road, which are currently undergoing reconstruction. Upgrades such as traffic lights and improved roundabouts are part of the government’s efforts to modernize major intersections in Aba and Umuahia.

In Umuahia, Njoku confirmed the completion of the expansion of Ossah Road, which has been renamed Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard. He added that the state capital is also benefiting from the construction of a new central transportation terminal and upgrades to the Abia Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Center.

Governor Otti’s commitment to infrastructure development extends across the state. Ongoing projects include the reconstruction of the Umuahia-Arochukwu Highway and key roads in Isiukwuato and Umunneochi. The governor’s focus on rural development is also evident, with the recent flag-off of the reconstruction of Umuoba, Isialangwa South to Obingwa Road, as part of the Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAAMP).

Looking ahead, Njoku mentioned plans for further urban and rural development, including the dualization of major roads and the installation of over 5,000 solar-powered streetlights to enhance security and beautify the environment. He emphasized that Governor Otti’s vision for a transformed Abia State is just beginning.

“The governor is just starting,” Njoku concluded, encouraging residents and stakeholders to visit the ongoing projects to see the transformation firsthand.