ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Federal Government has inaugurated the reconstructed 6.7-kilometre Port Harcourt Road in Aba, marking a significant step in Abia State’s infrastructure renewal and economic revitalisation drive.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, hailed the project’s completion as a “miracle” made possible through the collaboration of the Federal Government, the Abia State Government, and Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
According to a statement, the President commended Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for the high-quality execution of the project and his dedication to the state’s infrastructural transformation.
Tinubu noted that the road’s completion demonstrated the results achievable when good leadership, technical expertise, and transparency align.
He said, “The government and contractor’s efforts have led to the miracle of transformation we are witnessing today, not only in Aba but across the entire state. This road is a symbol of renewed hope and the power of purposeful governance.”
President Tinubu also praised Governor Otti for his commitment to infrastructural development and for positioning Abia as a model of progress and accountability.
Speaking at the event, the Director of Administration at Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr. Abdulaziz Kaita, described the reconstructed Port Harcourt Road as more than just a road, calling it a “lifeline for commerce and connection.”
He said, “This project links markets to manufacturers, neighbourhoods to opportunities, and Aba to the broader economy of the South-East and the Niger Delta. For years, residents endured flooding, traffic gridlock, vehicle damage, and lost productive hours plying this route.
“The inauguration of this reconstructed road marks a shift from perennial disruption to reliable mobility, and from reactive palliatives to planned resilience.”
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Dr. Kaita explained that the project was guided by a clear mandate to deliver a durable roadway capable of handling heavy traffic and intense rainfall.
He added, “Our approach to this project rested on three non-negotiable pillars: resilient pavement structure, comprehensive stormwater management, and complete street safety and urban renewal elements.
“At Julius Berger, we believe projects of this scale succeed only when engineering meets empathy. We designed and built with the people in mind.”
The reconstruction of the 6.7km Port Harcourt Road forms part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to modernise infrastructure and boost economic growth nationwide.
Officials stated that the project would ease travel, cut transportation costs, improve logistics, and enhance trade efficiency in the region.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by dignitaries including Abia State Deputy Governor, Engineer Ikechukwu Emeto; Secretary to the State Government, Professor Kenneth Kanu; members of the National Assembly; and senior officials from the Ministry of Works.
Governor Otti, in his remarks, reiterated his administration’s vision to restore Aba’s reputation as a thriving commercial hub worthy of its historical title, the “Japan of Africa.”
He said, “This project is a promise kept, a reflection of our belief that infrastructure drives prosperity. Aba deserves roads that can support its people, businesses, and industries, and that is exactly what we have delivered.”
Otti expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his support and voiced optimism that continued collaboration between the federal and state governments would unlock new opportunities for the South-East.
He also commended Julius Berger for executing the project with integrity, speed, and precision.
The Federal Government reaffirmed that the project aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope infrastructure agenda aimed at improving connectivity, fostering trade, and creating jobs nationwide.
Previously abandoned for over a decade, the Port Harcourt Road project is now expected to enhance mobility, attract investment, and reestablish Aba as a dynamic centre of trade and enterprise.