The Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has assured residents that the construction of the Port Harcourt road in Aba will be completed and fully functional by the end of 2024.
The governor disclosed this to the crowd of Abia residents, among others, on Tuesday night at the grand finale of the Global Crusade with Kumuyi, a six-day programme organised by the Deeper Christian Life Ministry.
Addressing the audience, Otti recalled the scepticism surrounding the project when it commenced in October of the previous year.
He said, “When in October, we brought Julius Berger to Port Harcourt Road, people said it wasn’t possible. A road that has not been used for 20 years is going to be used by the end of this year.
“I always refer to the story recorded in the Bible between Philip and Nathaniel. He went to Nathaniel and said we have found him, which is written about in the Bible by the prophet Moses and other prophets. Jesus, the son of Joseph, Joseph of Nazareth
“Nathaniel asked, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ And what did Philip tell him? ‘Come and see!’ the crowd responded.
Otti also expressed optimism for the future of the state, as he addressed the past perception of Abia.
He added, “In those days when you mention Abia State, people will dismiss you. ‘Can anything good come out of Abia State?’ It even became a comedy skit.
“So anybody who asks that question again, what will you tell him? ‘Come and see!’ the crowd responded again.
“So this is still early morning; 11 months (of my administration), greater things are coming.”
PUNCH reported in October 2023 that Otti flagged off the reconstruction of the perennially dilapidated 6.7 kilometres of Port Harcourt Road, Aba, and equally gave an official completion date of 18 months.
It was reported that the Port Harcourt road, one of the most deplorable federal roads in the state, was awarded to construction giant Julius Berger at a rate of N30 billion.
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