The Federal Government has given the green light for the establishment of a modular refinery within the Abia Industrial and Innovative Park (AIIP), situated in Owaza, an oil-producing community in Ukwa West Local Government Area. Governor Alex Otti made this announcement while inaugurating the construction of the 11.1-kilometer Obehie-Umudobia-Owaza road, a key infrastructure project aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the region.
During his speech at the event, Governor Otti underscored the broader significance of the road project, explaining that it extends beyond mere accessibility. He emphasized that the reconstruction of the road is about revitalizing long-dormant economic assets, fostering new opportunities, and rekindling aspirations that were once held dear by the people of the region.
“This project is not just about laying asphalt; it represents the restoration of economic vitality and a revival of long-lost dreams,” he stated.
The Governor assured that the road construction would be completed within one year, after which it would significantly enhance the economic viability of AIIP. Additionally, he announced the Federal Government’s approval of a modular refinery within AIIP, to be executed by H.I.S. Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited.
Otti reiterated that the Abia State Government would provide unwavering support to ensure the successful implementation of the refinery project. He highlighted the potential impact of the refinery, noting that it would be instrumental in accelerating industrialization and economic advancement in the area. Furthermore, he declared an end to the era of neglect that the Ukwa people have suffered, stressing that as the sole oil-producing region in Abia, Ukwa must not be left behind in developmental efforts.
“The time of neglect is over. We are ensuring that Ukwa and its people reap the benefits of their land’s resources. Your land will bring forth prosperity, and the oil found here will lead to greater economic transformation,” he affirmed.
The Governor also announced that his administration would collaborate with key development agencies such as the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC) and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to address years of political marginalization and underdevelopment in the region. In response to appeals from community members, he confirmed that the construction of the Umuzike-Obokwe-Ngwaiyiekwe road has been included in the 2025 budget and will soon be inaugurated.
Furthermore, Otti pledged to restore electricity to Asa land before the end of March. To expedite this process, he directed the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr. Ikechukwu Monday, to assess and outline the necessary steps for power restoration. He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling the state’s water crisis, having already declared a state of emergency in the sector. He urged the local communities to support contractors and work in harmony with the government to ensure seamless project execution.
Several community stakeholders and political leaders, including Hon. Godwin Adiele (Member of the Abia State House of Assembly), Mr. Philemon Ogbonna (Commissioner for Environment), and Pastor Dike Nwankwo (Mayor of Ukwa-West LGA), commended Governor Otti for his unwavering commitment to the development of Ukwa land. They expressed gratitude for his administration’s initiatives, particularly the refinery and road construction projects.
The Commissioner for Works, Otumchere Oti, described the Obehie-Owaza road as a vital economic gateway into Asa and AIIP, highlighting its potential to generate employment opportunities and attract investment into the area. Similarly, ASOPADEC General Manager, Venerable Joshua Onyeike, praised the Governor for allowing the commission to fulfill its mandate effectively.
Prominent community figures, including Dame Victoria Akanwa (a former legislator) and Pastor Ralph Egbu (a former Secretary to the State Government), commended Governor Otti’s leadership and infrastructural achievements. The President-General of the Asa Development Union, Elder Goodluck Nwauju, acknowledged the Governor’s dedication to the welfare of the people, citing his administration’s successful reclamation of over 10,000 hectares of land previously allocated for the abandoned Enyimba Economic City project.
Speakers at the event described Otti as a visionary leader and a divine blessing to the people. Many expressed their confidence in his administration and openly endorsed him for a second term in office, emphasizing the tangible impact of his governance on the development of the state.