Bende communities are celebrating the commissioning of the 46km Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Akara-Alayi-Abriba Road. Discover why this road means more than infrastructure. Full details inside
The people of Bende Local Government Area have expressed profound gratitude and overwhelming joy following the commissioning of the 46-kilometre Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Akara-Alayi-Abriba Road by former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Friday, April 11, 2025. The massive road infrastructure, which cuts through several Bende communities, is regarded as a historic milestone in the administration of Governor Alex C. Otti.
According to Hon. Iheanyi Frank Chinasa, National Assembly Liaison Officer and Leader of the Labour Party in Bende, the road project has not only restored hope in governance but has also reaffirmed the administration’s genuine commitment to rural transformation and economic empowerment.
The newly commissioned road links the state capital, Umuahia, to key Bende communities including Uzuakoli, Alayi, Akara, Item, and Abiriba. This strategic connectivity is expected to unlock economic potential, ease the transportation of agricultural produce, stimulate commerce, and attract private investments to the area.
In a heartfelt statement, the people of Bende described the project as a game-changer that will significantly uplift their livelihoods and socio-economic status.
“This is a monumental achievement that lends credence to the unwavering commitment of Governor Alex Otti to the development and prosperity of our people,” Hon. Chinasa stated.
The benefits of the road are already being felt, as traders, farmers, and transporters in Bende are preparing to leverage the improved infrastructure to expand market access and improve turnaround time for their businesses. What was once a dilapidated, impassable route riddled with potholes and erosion is now a smooth, dual-lane roadway facilitating movement and commerce.
Community leaders say this intervention by the state government reflects true leadership and vision. By targeting long-neglected rural infrastructure, Governor Otti has rekindled the hope of marginalized communities and demonstrated his inclusive governance model.
“This is not just a road; it is a lifeline to economic growth, job creation, and social integration. The entire Bende people are united in appreciation to Governor Alex Otti for this transformative gift,” the statement continued.
The commissioning event, which had the presence of former President Obasanjo, further gave national significance to the project, underscoring its importance to regional connectivity and national development.
As expectations rise across other parts of Abia State, the Bende example now serves as a shining model of what is possible when visionary leadership meets purposeful action.
For the people of Bende, this is only the beginning. With the road now completed, there are renewed calls for complementary projects such as rural electrification, modern markets, and ICT hubs to further boost the development index of the region.
As it stands, the people have spoken — and they have spoken with one voice: “Thank you, Governor Alex Otti. You have etched your name in the hearts of Bende people forever.”
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