Governor Otti Explains Delay in Ukwa Seaport Project

Soltrenx.com

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has explained why work is yet to begin on the proposed Ukwa seaport project, assuring residents that his administration remains committed to making the project a reality.

Speaking when he received members of the Ezumezu Ndoki Patriotic Association from Ukwa East Local Government Area on a courtesy visit, Otti said his government would not commence construction until there is certainty of adequate funding to complete it.

According to him, the feasibility study carried out by a Chinese team revealed that the scope of work is much larger than initially estimated. The report indicated that about 19.5 kilometres of dredging would be required to connect the seaport to the high sea—far more extensive than earlier assessments had suggested.

“This kind of project requires a substantial amount of money. We don’t want to start something we cannot finish. Before we begin, we must be sure it is viable and that we have the necessary funds to see it through,” Otti stated.

He stressed that the administration has already secured all necessary approvals and licences for the seaport, but the financial implications have forced a return to the drawing board.

“On partnerships, everything is in place. But we will not move forward until we are very sure the funds to complete it are available. What we will not do is start and abandon it midway,” he added.

The governor further assured that his government has no intention of abandoning ongoing road projects leading to Ukwa East. He reaffirmed his commitment to completing every road project initiated by his administration, stressing that infrastructure development remains a top priority for Abia State.