Discover why Nigeria’s Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, says Governor Alex Otti’s road projects in Abia are mind-blowing. Read the full story for more.

…. Umahi Hails Otti for Transforming Abia Roads, Calls It “Mind-Blowing”
The Federal Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, has heaped praises on Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for his impressive and quality-driven road projects across the state, particularly on federal roads. Umahi’s commendation followed an unscheduled inspection visit to Abia, where he assessed ongoing and completed federal projects, including the iconic Port Harcourt Road in Aba.
Addressing the press after meeting with Governor Otti in Umuahia, Umahi declared that he had deliberately visited without notifying the state government, in order to conduct an independent assessment of projects the federal government intends to commission by December 2025.
“I’m very, very proud of what you are doing for the Abia people,” Umahi said. “Not just the quantity of the projects, but the quality as well. The Port Harcourt Road is particularly mind-blowing. It’s unbelievable that it has been transformed the way it is today.”
Umahi noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, will be personally commissioning the project due to its scale and impact. He applauded Otti for intervening in federal roads like the Port Harcourt-Aba Road, Ohafia-Arochukwu Road, and the Onuimo-Umuahia Road, which had long been abandoned before his administration took initiative.
The Minister added that prior to Otti’s assumption of office, contractors on key federal road segments struggled to work effectively. He appreciated the governor for removing such bottlenecks and creating an enabling environment for infrastructure delivery.
He further called on governors across Nigeria to emulate Otti by partnering with the federal government, irrespective of political affiliations. “We need more governors like Otti who prioritize the welfare of their people over politics,” he said.
Highlighting the longstanding friendship between President Tinubu and Governor Otti, Umahi stated: “This President is doing a lot for the Southeast. We have every reason to stand with him. And I know you, Governor Otti, have been a long-time friend and supporter of the President.”
In response, Governor Otti reiterated his commitment to collaboration and delivering people-oriented infrastructure. He emphasized that his administration is focused on impact, not politics.
“When the roads are done, credit goes to the government, whether state or federal,” Otti stated. “Our goal is to change the lives of our people. I’m glad you personally witnessed the quality of work done.”
Governor Otti disclosed that the delay in commissioning the completed Port Harcourt Road was due to President Tinubu’s trip to the Vatican. However, he assured that a new date will soon be confirmed and more roads would be ready for unveiling.
On Umahi’s appeal to rehabilitate the other carriageway of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Otti said the state Ministry of Works will inspect the stretch and explore how best to intervene.




