Abia State Governor Alex Otti flagged off the construction of the 19.1km Itungwa-Mgboko-Amaise road under the RAAMP initiative. The project aims to enhance rural access, boost agricultural productivity, and create jobs, signaling a new phase of development in Abia.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex C. Otti, has taken a significant step in boosting rural development with the flag-off of the 19.1-kilometer Itungwa-Mgboko-Amaise-Amairi-Omoba-Ahiaba-Nkwo-Elechi Road. This project, part of the World Bank-supported Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), aims to improve road infrastructure in Abia’s agricultural regions, enhancing access to markets and promoting economic growth.
Speaking at the Railway Crossing in Omoba, where the construction was inaugurated on October 2, 2024, Governor Otti reiterated the importance of infrastructure to unlock the state’s agricultural potential. “Our capacity to effectively harness the blessings of nature depends on the structures we put in place,” Otti emphasized. He lamented that despite Abia’s vast arable land and favorable climate, the state still depends heavily on food from distant regions. Otti attributed this to underutilization of agricultural resources and poor infrastructure.
Governor Otti, who took office 16 months ago, highlighted the steps his administration has taken to fulfill campaign promises, including multiple infrastructure projects. “We came to power with a promise to unleash economic levers that would drive the prosperity and well-being of our people. Today, we are gathered to further that goal by flagging off this critical road project,” he said.
The Itungwa-Mgboko road project is part of a larger framework to revitalize Abia’s rural economy. Beyond just constructing roads, RAAMP integrates road maintenance through the Rural Access Road Agency (RARA) and the establishment of a State Road Fund (SRF). This ensures the sustainability of the roads, improving farmers’ access to markets and cutting post-harvest losses.
Furthermore, Otti revealed plans to upgrade and develop 256 kilometers of roads across Abia by the end of the year. Six major agro-logistics hubs will also be established, enhancing trade and productivity in areas like Bende, Ikwuano, Arochukwu, and Obingwa.
Governor Otti expressed his gratitude to the World Bank for their continued support and cooperation. He also praised the dedication of Abia’s government officials, including the State Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, whose efforts made the project possible.
“RAAMP is more than just road construction. It is a framework for stimulating the economic transformation of our rural communities,” Governor Otti stated, noting that the project’s success would significantly reduce rural poverty, create jobs, and improve agricultural yields.
The road project symbolizes the government’s commitment to equitable development. “In Abia, the days of small dreams and mediocre vision are long gone,” Governor Otti declared. With more projects planned, Abia is on the path to sustainable development.
