Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has announced plans to establish a multi-billion-naira agro-industrial processing facility in Umunneochi Local Government Area, a project designed to revolutionize the state’s agricultural sector.
Otti made this known on Wednesday while commissioning the reconstruction of the 11.27-kilometer Mbala-Umuaku-Ngodo Road, emphasizing that the facility would integrate production, aggregation, and processing of agro-commodities to boost food production, enhance value chains, and create export opportunities.
He assured that the project, set for implementation soon, would serve as a major economic driver, benefiting farmers, agribusinesses, and the local economy.
However, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to road rehabilitation, directing the Commissioner for Works to inspect the dilapidated Nmam Bridge for urgent intervention.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, hailed the road reconstruction as a catalyst for economic growth and community development, urging the government to prioritize the Nmam Bridge’s rehabilitation. Similarly, Chief Amobi Ogah, the lawmaker representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, described the project as a unifying factor for residents, calling for the rehabilitation of Uturu Road to enhance connectivity.
Commissioner for Works, Mr. Otumchere Oti, commended the governor’s resolve to unlock the potential of rural communities through infrastructure development.
He highlighted that the Mbala-Umuaku-Ngodo Road traverses agrarian communities producing cassava, cashew, yam, and black beans in commercial quantities, noting that poor road access had hindered farmers from reaching markets.
“The governor, the jinx breaker, is here, and every obstacle that has delayed this road’s construction will be thrown into the dustbin of history,” he declared.
He further noted that the project would enhance agribusiness growth, generate employment, and improve the state’s internally generated revenue, while significantly reducing travel time and operating costs for road users.
