A faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has praised President Bola Tinubu and Minister of Works Senator Dave Umahi for their significant strides in improving the infrastructure of Aba, a key economic center in the Southeast.
The group acknowledged the ongoing road construction projects, including the expansion of the Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway (Aba segment) and the Aba-Ikot Ekpene expressway, which are seen as crucial for revitalizing the city’s economic landscape.
In a statement by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of the group, they commended the efforts to address the long-standing infrastructural challenges that have hindered Aba’s growth and economic potential.
Part of the statement read: ”These transformative initiatives have reshaped the landscape of economic development in this historic city, propelling it towards its zenith as the distinguished “Japan of Africa.”
”It is an undeniable reality that the city of Aba has grappled with economic adversity for a staggering 24 years, primarily due to deficient road networks that deterred West African customers, local entrepreneurs, and foreign investors from engaging with this integral city within the Igbo heartland.
”The lamentable neglect of critical federal highways leading to Aba by former administrations spanning from 1999 to 2023 exacerbated its economic isolation and thwarted the growth potential of the Southeastern region.
”Consequently, the enduring support of Ndigbo for President Tinubu and Minister Dave Umahi serves as a testament to their resolute commitment in ameliorating the longstanding infrastructural deficiencies that have impeded progress within the region.”
In light of these advancements, the Ohanaeze faction urged Igbos to support the current administration rather than participate in the planned nationwide protests scheduled for August 1.
They argued that the ongoing projects and the administration’s commitment to addressing infrastructural deficiencies warrant support rather than dissent.