Most Rev. Dr. Fortunatus Nwachukwu, Abia-born Catholic Archbishop and former Chief Protocol Officer at the Vatican Secretariat of State, has praised Governor Alex Otti for the reconstruction of the Port Harcourt Road in Aba, describing the long-neglected highway as “Aba’s stomach upset” and crediting its repair with alleviating years of hardship for residents.
The Archbishop, currently Secretary of the Dicastery for Evangelization, made the remarks during his thanksgiving mass marking the 13th anniversary of his episcopal ordination by Pope Benedict XVI. The event also included the profession of perpetual and temporary vows by three Sisters into the Marrian Missionary Sisters Ad Regnum Dei, held at the Archbishop’s home parish, Sanctuary of Mary Immaculate, Egbelu-Etiti Ntigha, Isialangwa North LGA.
Recalling previous appeals to former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu to repair the road, Archbishop Nwachukwu said the project had long been neglected, causing severe disruption to residents and businesses. He commended Governor Otti for not only addressing the Port Harcourt Road but also improving other infrastructure, including the Abia Tower Road through Umuahia.
The Archbishop also used the occasion to request the Governor’s intervention in repairing the road leading to their community and advocated for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to construct the Umuoso-Imo River Road linking to Mbaise in Imo State, highlighting the potential for improved access and reduced hardship for local residents.
In his homily, Archbishop Nwachukwu emphasized the essence of Christian life and religious vocation, stressing service, obedience, and sacrifice over material gain, and reflecting on his 13 years as an Apostolic Nuncio.
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Governor Otti, responding to the Archbishop, reiterated his commitment to delivering projects that improve lives. He confirmed that roads highlighted by the Archbishop, along with other critical infrastructure, are included in the 2026 State Government budget. The Governor also assured that he would engage the NDDC to expedite the construction of the Umuoso-Imo River Road and a road leading to the Skills Acquisition Centre in Umuocheala, Owerrinta.
“I want to acknowledge the request that the Archbishop has made. And even the ones he did not make, we’ve already provided for in the 2026 budget. The NDDC project will be prioritized, and I will meet the MD soon to ensure progress,” Governor Otti said. He expressed gratitude to the Church, Ndi Ntigha, and all Abians for supporting his administration and congratulated Archbishop Nwachukwu and the three newly inducted Sisters for their sacrifices to God.
The thanksgiving event drew numerous dignitaries, including Senator Darlington Nwokocha, LP Acting National Secretary, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ugochukwu Iheonunekwu of the Abia State House of Assembly, Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D., and Chief Reagan Ufomba. The celebration featured choir performances and the ceremonial cutting of the Archbishop’s anniversary cake.
