Otti expresses satisfaction with pace of reconstruction work on Enugu-PH Expressway
From Boniface Okoro, Umuahia
Photo
Governor Alex Otti (in reflective jacket) during the road inspection
Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti, has expressed satisfaction with the pace of work in the ongoing reconstruction of the dilapidated Aba-Port Harcourt axis of the Enugu-Umuahia-Aba-Port Harcourt expressway.
Governor Otti who bared his mind during an inspection tour of the project, said that his administration was collaborating with the federal government to ensure that the Aba-Ukwa axis of the expressway was reconstructed and put to use this Yuletide.
The Governor said that he embarked on the inspection visit to ascertain the progress of work done so far on the project being handled by the Chinese Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), a Chinese construction firm.
The inspection commenced from the border between Abia and Rivers State of the expressway, down to Alaoji and the entrance into Ariaria Market in Aba, Abia State.
“The Abia State government is collaborating with the federal government to ensure that this road which has been unutilized for a very long time is got ready as quickly as possible,” Otti said.
“Last week, precisely on Friday, I was with the Honourable Minister of Works. The Minister assured me that they have the instructions of the President to ensure that this road is available for use to motorists by or before the Yuletide of this year and I have come to see for myself the progress of work,” he added.
The State Governor, who was impressed with the level of work done so far, thanked Mr. President and the Minister of Works for their commitment in ensuring that the road was fixed.
“I can see the seriousness of the contractor. Coincidentally, the contractor, CCECC, is also working for us in Abia State. We have an Engineer permanently posted to them here on site, giving us daily reports. And I am impressed. I want to use this opportunity to thank the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu , Minister of Works , Engr. David Umahi, and the contractors who are working so hard to make sure that this road is put to use as soon as possible” Governor Otti said.
Governor Otti also made a stopover at the Asa Nnentu Spare Parts Market on his way back where he addressed a mammoth crowd of traders who trooped out in their numbers to welcome him.
The Governor’s entourage, comprising some members of his cabinet, was guided by a team of engineers from CCECC.