Gov Otti to Commission Omenuko Bridge, Abam–Arochukwu Road Feb. 13

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced that the newly completed Omenuko Bridge, alongside the Abam–Okobo–Amuvi–Arochukwu Road, will be commissioned on February 13, 2026.

The governor made this known on Thursday during the first edition of the year’s monthly media parley, tagged “Governor Otti Speaks,” held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Umuahia.

Governor Otti recalled that the reconstruction of the historic bridge was flagged off in February 2025, with a completion timeline of nine months. The colonial-era bridge had become a major safety risk due to its narrow carriageway and deteriorated condition, causing severe hardship for residents.

He said the newly completed bridge would significantly improve transportation and connectivity between Arochukwu, Abam and Ohafia communities, bringing relief to residents who had endured years of difficulty.

The governor also revealed that more major road projects are set to be flagged off soon, including the reconstruction of Uratta Road and the Old Express Road in Aba, aimed at fully restoring the commercial city’s road network.

“Within the month of February, specifically on the 13th, we will be commissioning the Omenuko Bridge and the Abam–Okobo–Amuvi–Arochukwu road,” Otti said. “Very shortly, we will be flagging off the reconstruction of Uratta Road and the Old Express Road so that complete recovery of Aba will happen.”

He disclosed that over 30 road projects are currently under contract across the state, with many nearing completion.

In the housing sector, Governor Otti said the administration is moving from planning to execution, with several housing projects ready for flag-off, including pocket layout housing construction for civil servants, as well as other projects in Mbaisi, Mgbarakuma and Ubakala.

On education, the governor noted that rehabilitation work is ongoing in tertiary institutions such as Abia State University, Uturu; Abia State College of Education (Technical), Arochukwu; and Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic. He added that hostel construction is underway at permanent sites.

Governor Otti further revealed that enrolment in public schools has risen sharply following recent reforms, increasing from about 117,000 pupils a year ago to over 300,000 as of last month.

To address the growing numbers, he confirmed that the recruitment of 4,000 additional teachers is currently in progress.