By Victor Nwegede, Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has commended the Coordinator of Ominyi Development Centre, Mr. Chidi Ogbonna, for the successful construction of a multi-million naira three-span bridge in Ominyi Development Centre, Izzi Local Government Area of the state.
The Governor gave the commendation during the commissioning of the bridge, represented by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Uchenna Igwe.
He described the project as a clear demonstration of his administration’s commitment to grassroots development and fulfillment of campaign promises anchored on the People’s Charter of Needs.
Governor Nwifuru noted that the bridge would significantly improve rural connectivity, enhance economic activities, and ease the movement of farm produce and goods from hinterland communities to major markets.
He assured residents that his administration would continue to prioritize life-changing projects in rural areas, adding that several ongoing projects across the state would soon be commissioned.
“I commend the coordinator for aligning with the vision of this administration by executing a project that directly impacts the lives of the people,” the Governor stated, reiterating that infrastructure development and human capital advancement remain key pillars of his government.
In his remarks, Mr. Chidi Ogbonna disclosed that the bridge construction commenced in March 2024 following his appointment and swearing-in in January 2024.
He explained that the project, designed as a three-span bridge by professional engineers, was completed to specification to withstand seasonal challenges and serve the community effectively.
Ogbonna revealed that the bridge project cost approximately ₦300 million, noting that materials procurement alone gulped over ₦150 million.
He emphasized that the bridge has resolved years of isolation experienced by several communities, especially during the rainy season, and would now guarantee unhindered access to markets and neighboring towns.
Beyond the bridge, the coordinator highlighted other ongoing projects in the area, including pipe-borne water schemes, road grading, and rehabilitation of rural roads spanning over 30 kilometers to adjoining communities within the development centre.
Stakeholders who graced the commissioning ceremony applauded the initiative.
Dr. Jeremiah Nwankwegu, Federal Commissioner representing Ebonyi State at the National Population Commission (NPC), described the bridge as a monumental achievement, expressing pride in Ogbonna’s leadership and dedication to service.
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Mr. Monday Nkwuda, lauded the quality and scale of the project, urging other development centre coordinators and local government chairmen to emulate Ogbonna in accelerating grassroots development.
Community leaders, including Chief Emmanuel Nwobashi, and clergy such as Rev. Fr. Godwin Uguru, also commended the governor and the coordinator, pledging continued community support and grassroots endorsement of Governor Nwifuru’s administration for sustaining impactful development across Ebonyi State.
Nigerian Pilot reports that the commissioning of the bridge marked a major infrastructural milestone for Ominyi Development Centre and reinforced the state government’s drive toward inclusive and sustainable rural development.
