Governor Otti Flags Off Rehabilitation Of Aba Regional Water Scheme

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has officially flagged off the rehabilitation of the Aba Regional Water Scheme, a landmark initiative by the State Government aimed at increasing access to safe drinking water for every household across the state.

Speaking at the event held at St. Joseph’s College (CKC), Aba, Governor Otti said the rehabilitation is a critical part of the Abia Integrated WASH Accelerated Programme, which encompasses the revitalization of existing water schemes and development of new ones.

“Our vision is to build a community where there is a public water standpost within two to three minutes’ walking distance from every home,” the Governor stated. He added that the initiative aims to drastically reduce the time families—especially children and mothers—spend sourcing water from distant private boreholes or streams.

Beyond water access, Governor Otti emphasized the wider impact of the initiative: improved hygiene, sanitation, healthcare, emergency preparedness, and economic productivity. “This is not just a water supply project, but a bold healthcare and human development agenda,” he noted.

He reaffirmed his commitment to restoring public water supply in Aba, Umuahia, and across 57 rural water schemes in the state, and directed the deployment of security teams to protect public water infrastructure from vandalism. He also encouraged citizens to safeguard public assets and report any suspected sabotage.

In response to requests from students of St. Joseph’s College, Governor Otti approved the immediate delivery of a refuse bin by ASEPA and the establishment of a Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre in the school with no fewer than 250 computers.

The Governor also commended the contractor, Vena Cava Technologies Nig. Ltd., represented by Mr. Miloslav Mitic, for their commitment to the project.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Ucheonye Stephen, representing Aba Central Constituency, and Ide John Udeagbala, leader of Aba’s organized private sector, thanked the Governor and pledged their full support.

Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, and General Manager of Abia State Water and Sewage Corporation, Engr. Felix Okonkwo, described the water scheme as a transformative step toward better sanitation and health in schools and communities, noting that the project would be completed within six months.

In a goodwill message, the Catholic Bishop of Aba Diocese, Most Rev. Prof. Augustine Echema, praised Governor Otti for delivering on his promises. “This is a new beginning for Abia,” he said, adding, “Abians have never had it this good.”

The event was graced by top government officials, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D., Mayors of Aba South, Aba North, Ukwa East, and Osisioma LGAs, members of the Aba business community, Labour Party stalwarts, and Abia Arise members.