Gov. Otti Flags Off 13.5km Ariam-Usaka Ring Road Construction, Assures More Development Projects Ahead

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has officially flagged off the construction of the 13.5-kilometre Ariam-Usaka Ring Road in Ikwuano Local Government Area, marking yet another milestone in his administration’s drive to rebuild the state’s infrastructure and enhance rural connectivity.

The event, held on Friday at Obeama Ariam Model Primary School, attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, political stakeholders, and jubilant residents, who hailed the project as a long-awaited intervention that would bring development and open up new economic opportunities for the people of Ikwuano.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Governor Otti stated that the Ariam-Usaka Ring Road project represents more than just a road construction initiative — it signifies the beginning of a new phase of progress and prosperity for the communities in the area. According to him, the road will stimulate trade, attract investors, and strengthen social and economic ties among the people.

“Fixing the Ariam-Usaka Ring Road will signal the beginning of a new cycle of investments that will ultimately transform Ikwuano into one of the next frontlines of opportunities and prosperity in Abia State,” Governor Otti said.

The Governor explained that his administration is already laying out plans for more extensive road infrastructure projects across the state as part of the upcoming 2026 budget cycle. He noted that the grand vision is to create an interconnected network of roads that will link communities within Oloko, Oboro, Ibere, and Ariam to neighbouring areas in Bende, Umuahia North, and Umuahia South Local Government Areas.

“The grand plan is to connect communities within Oloko, Oboro, Ibere, and Ariam to each other, and to the clans and communities in Bende, Umuahia North, and South LGAs,” Otti emphasized, assuring residents that his administration remains fully committed to balanced development across all parts of Abia State.

Governor Otti also promised that the contractor handling the Ariam-Usaka project would receive all necessary support and resources to ensure timely and quality completion within 12 months. He reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance for abandoned or substandard projects, stressing that transparency, accountability, and value for money remain the core principles guiding every government contract.

Community leaders who spoke at the event commended the governor for his visionary leadership and people-oriented governance. They noted that the Ariam-Usaka Ring Road, once completed, would boost agricultural activities, ease transportation, and enhance access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Governor Otti reiterated that the project was part of his broader mission to rebuild Abia and restore the people’s confidence in government through visible, life-changing projects. He urged residents to support and cooperate with the contractors to enable smooth execution of the work.

The flag-off ceremony concluded with prayers and expressions of gratitude from the Ariam-Usaka people, who described the project as a dream come true and a major step toward inclusive development in Ikwuano Local Government Area.