Aba Rising Again? Otti Flags Off 14 Strategic Road Projects, Promises Return of the ‘Old Enyimba City’

Otti has launched a bold urban renewal of Aba. Is this the comeback the city needs? Read more to find out.

ABA, Abia STATE – In a move hailed by some as visionary and by others as politically ambitious, Governor Alex Chioma Otti of Abia State has flagged off the reconstruction of 14 critical roads within the Aba Enyimba City corridor, sparking widespread debate on whether Aba’s long-awaited return to glory is finally within reach.

Speaking at a colourful commissioning ceremony held on June 10, 2025, at St. Joseph’s College, Aba, Governor Otti described the project as the beginning of “a new urban renaissance” designed to reposition Aba as not just the commercial hub of the South East, but a modern city ready to compete on the global stage.

“We are here to renew a promise and rebuild the soul of a city that once powered the dreams of millions,” Otti declared before a cheering crowd. “The Old Aba must rise again, and it begins with fixing its roads.”

The roads—anchored around the Umuode Road and extending to thirteen other strategic arteries—connect densely populated residential zones, economic hubs, and industrial layouts, many of which had become impassable due to decades of decay, mismanagement, and lack of political will.

Beyond Asphalt: Rebuilding Lost Confidence

Governor Otti was quick to point out that this project isn’t just about concrete and tar.

“We’re not merely laying roads; we’re laying the foundation for Aba’s rebirth,” he said. “This city was once the industrial pride of Nigeria. We owe it to our children to bring it back.”

He praised residents, landlords, and businesses for cooperating with the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) and contractors, while also urging them to protect the infrastructure against misuse, illegal dumping, and sabotage. He warned sternly against the erection of illegal structures, blockage of water channels, or vandalism of public utilities, which he said would be met with full legal consequences.

The Strategic 14: Roads Chosen for Economic Impact

While the full list of the 14 roads was not publicly detailed at the ceremony, insiders revealed that the selected roads were chosen based on their economic relevance, traffic flow, linkage to major markets and ports, and potential to attract investment.

Roads in areas like Ariaria, Ngwa Road, Omuma, and Ohabiam are reportedly on the list—zones known for their commercial activities but plagued for years by poor accessibility and erosion.

“When we fix a road in Aba, we are unlocking the economic capacity of the entire South East,” Otti noted.

Aba in Historical Context: From Envy to Erosion

Aba, once referred to as the “Japan of Africa” due to its ingenuity and industrial dexterity, was the pride of Eastern Nigeria during the First Republic. The city attracted entrepreneurs, artisans, and investors from all over the country and beyond.

However, after the civil war, years of military rule, weak governance, and infrastructural neglect turned Aba into a symbol of failed urban planning. Flooded roads, abandoned drains, and mountains of waste became the norm.

“For many years, Aba became a case study in how not to run a city,” said political analyst Uche Igwe. “But this is the first time in recent history that we’re seeing a comprehensive effort to reverse that trend.”

Can the Government Fund It All?

While the applause for Otti’s ambitions is loud, critics have raised eyebrows over how the state intends to fund such an extensive reconstruction at a time when federal allocations are shrinking and states are under fiscal pressure.

“Let’s be honest. Good intentions won’t lay roads,” said opposition lawmaker Hon. Stanley Okeke. “Where’s the sustainable funding plan? Is this just another beautification stunt or a solid recovery blueprint?”

But the governor was confident. He said the government had adopted a prudent financial model, supported by public-private partnerships and development funds, including international donor agency interest in the GADA model.

Not Just Roads: Vision of a Hybrid Economy

Interestingly, Otti used the occasion to unveil a broader economic vision for Aba—one that includes the promotion of remote work hubs, technology clusters, and modern industrial parks.

“The new Aba will no longer rely only on physical markets. We’re investing in broadband, energy, and digital capacity,” he announced. “We want to see designers in Faulks Road selling to clients in Europe.”

He appealed to residents to complement government efforts through tax compliance, community policing, and maintenance partnerships.

Final Words: “This is Our Generation’s Duty”

Closing his speech, Otti struck a patriotic tone.

“Aba gave so much to Nigeria. It is time Nigeria gives back to Aba. May history remember us not as the generation that watched its greatness fade, but the one that dared to dream, rebuild, and restore.”

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