METRO
New Governor’s Office, Official Residence Springing Up in Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has inspected the new Governor’s Office and Official Residence under construction within the Government House complex in Umuahia.
Recall that on assumption of office on May 29, 2023, Governor Otti rejected the existing Governor’s office and official residence, as well as the new Government House the Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu administration claimed it built at Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, on the grounds that they were unfit for human habitation.
He therefore chose to operate from his Nvosi country home in Isiala Ngwa South, pending when befitting edifices were built for the Chief Executive of the state, a decision that put the opposition at odds with the Otti administration till date.
Though the Governor has always defended his action by replying that where he was operating from was not more important than providing what Abians need, he, early this year, began the construction of what government officials describe as a gigantic, fit-for-purpose Governor’s office and official residence.
Last Saturday, the Governor took off time his Sabbath activities to inspect the two projects.
On arrival at the project site, Governor Otti conducted a comprehensive inspection and engaged with the site engineers to ensure that the project was being executed in line with the approved design and specifications.
Expressing satisfaction with the quality and progress of work, he urged the contractor to maintain the momentum, disclosing that the project was expected to be completed before the end of this year.
The construction of the new Governor’s Office and Official Residence forms part of the ongoing rebuilding and modernization of the Abia State seat of power which has suffered years of neglect under previous administrations.
Several buildings have already been completed as part of the Government House rebuilding and upgrading initiative. They include renovation and retrofitting of the Deputy Governor’s Office, construction of a brand new Office for the Secretary to the State Government and the remodeling of Michael Okpara Auditorium, the Protocol Building, and the Banquet Hall, among others.
Meanwhile other projects also under construction within the Government House complex include a modern Government House Clinic, a new Government House Gate, and other supporting infrastructure aimed at transforming the seat of government into a befitting administrative hub.
