Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia has expressed commitment to infrastructural development in the rural areas to boost the socio-economic growth at the grassroots.
Ikpeazu made this known on Thursday at the inauguration of Omoba Sports Club and Cultural Carnival, in Omoba community of Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
The governor said that the state government considered development at the grassroots level as a significant contributor to the advancement of the state.
He said that the state government had commenced massive road construction projects that would open up various rural communities for increased socioeconomic activities.
“There is an ongoing Umuagu-Itukpa road construction in Obingwa Local Government Area that would continue to Omoba community as part of efforts to develop the area.
“There are plans underway to build more roads in Omoba community and install street lights in the area,” Ikpeazu said.
He said that culture is an integral part of the people, adding that it has an active role to play in fostering unity of purpose in every community that desires growth.
Ikpeazu advised the leaders of Omoba Community to prioritise culture and sports activities in order to make the community a tourist destination and boost revenue generation in the area.
Speaking, Chief Raymond Aliga, the Chairman on the occasion, commended the state government for its desire to develop the rural communities in Abia.
Aliga said that the people of Omoba would not hesitate to support any venture that would boost government’s initiative to promote grassroots development.
He commended the organisers of the event for creating an avenue for the members of the community to display their rich cultural heritage.
Earlier, Mr Chidiebere Nwoke, the President of Omoba Sports Club, said that the club was borne out of the desire to promote sports development in the area.
Nwoke said that the club would serve as a platform to foster peace, unity and development in the community and the state as a whole.
