Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Respite is under way for motorists and commuters in Abia State, as the Federal Road Maintenance Agency, FERMA, has commenced repairs of federal roads in Abia State.
The palliative work according to the Federal Road Maintenance Engineer (FRME), in charge of Abia State, Festus Okafor, is in keeping with the mandate of the agency.
Engr. Okafor who conducted newsmen round some of the affected roads, said the action was aimed at making federal roads in the state accessible.
He also said that the intervention was in compliance with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, to make life easy and enjoyable for Nigerians.
The FERMA boss identified the roads they agency is currently carrying out remedial works to include Aba-Azumini Road; Umuahia-Bende-Ohafia Road; and Uturu-Mile 2- Ebonyi border Road.
He expressed delight at the progress of repairs so far carried out on the affected roads, assuring that more federal roads in the state will receive attention as more funds are released.
Disclosing that Abia State has a total of 14 captured federal roads, the FERMA boss explained that the patch works were being executed through direct labour.
He, therefore, appealed to motorists to be patient with the agency, noting that paucity of funds delays intervention.
Okafor said that the agency had saved some of the roads from further deterioration by carrying out interventions at the failed portions.
“The on-going patch works started two weeks ago and it is part of our proactive efforts to avoid further damage on the roads by arresting the situation early.
“We have washouts threatening to cut some roads especially Umuahia-Bende Road. We have done quick intervention through direct labour.
“We have also done some patch works on Aba-Azumini Road, and Uturu-Mile 2- Ebonyi border Road to keep them motorable and reduce hardship on motorists.
“More federal roads will receive attention as we get more funds. We are waiting for more funds to enable us tackle massive failures on federal roads in the state.”
He applauded President Tinubu for mobilising the agency to enable it carry out its mandate.
Okafor equally commended the Managing Director of FERMA, Dr Chukwuemeka Agbasi, for his proactiveness and efficiency.
He appealed to residents to abstain from activities capable of causing damage on the roads.
