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The Imo State Government has commended the family of His Royal Highness, Eze Dr. Josiah Nzeremibe Osuji, Eze-Ukwu I of Obi-Mbieri Autonomous Community, for undertaking the construction of a 4.5-kilometre road in Umuahii, Obi-Mbieri.
The road project, financed by the royal family and initiated in late 2025, has entered a significant phase with the commencement of asphalting works on Monday, March 16, 2026, signaling its near completion.
Another phase of eulogy from the government and indigenes was extended to Obi-Mbieri sons and daughters in diaspora for their thoughful intervention in the earthworks and drainage systems from Ahia-Ututu to Okwuoba bridge.
This newspaper noted that the indigenes abroad had commenced the earthworks on the aforementioned road with gutters before Eze Osuji’s household picked over the entire work and promised the entire asphalting which will run in stages.
The flag-off ceremony drew a large turnout of government officials, traditional rulers, and residents, many of whom described the project as transformative for the community.
Speaking during the event, His Royal Highness, Eze Goddy Opurum of Ishi-Ogbaku Ancient Kingdom, described the initiative as a long-awaited breakthrough. He praised Eze Osuji for his visionary leadership and for inspiring community-driven development among his children, attributing the project’s success to divine intervention.
In a goodwill message, Prince Marcelinus Nlemigbo lauded the project, expressing confidence that the monarch’s developmental strides would leave a lasting legacy. He urged residents to foster unity and support ongoing efforts aimed at improving the community.
The Director-General of the Imo Rural Roads Maintenance Agency (IRROMA), Barr. Kingsley Ononuju, aligned the project with the infrastructure agenda of Governor Hope Uzodimma, noting that it reflects the growing role of private initiatives in complementing government development efforts. He assured that the agency would provide maintenance support upon completion.
Also speaking, a representative of the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Amadi, commended the quality of preliminary work done on the road, particularly the drainage and earthworks. He expressed confidence that the asphalting phase would meet required engineering standards and pledged technical backing from the ministry.
Crown Prince Ikechukwu Charles Osuji, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to God and the people for their continued support. He outlined the phased approach to the asphalting process, covering key stretches from the Ogwa boundary to Ahia Ututu Market, onward to Okwuoba Junction, and terminating at Ama Paul in Umuagwu.
He highlighted several contributions of the monarch to the community, including the establishment of a Royal Health College, installation of solar-powered streetlights, and implementation of scholarship and empowerment programmes. According to him, these initiatives reflect the family’s commitment to improving living standards in Obi-Mbieri.
Flagging off the asphalting, the Chairman of Mbaitoli LGA, Hon. Ifunanya Nwanegwo, described the project as a historic achievement and called for sustained peace and unity among residents. She commended the Osuji family for what she termed a remarkable act of philanthropy.
The President General of Umuahii, Prince Ugonna Achuko, also expressed appreciation to the royal family for its developmental efforts, noting that the road would significantly improve mobility and economic activities in the area.
In a related development, the Mbaitoli Legislative Council passed a vote of confidence on the Osuji family in recognition of their contribution. The motion, moved by Rt. Hon. Onyekachi Ogwuruike and seconded by Hon. Chinedu Onyebarachi, underscored the importance of the project in easing transportation challenges.
The event was attended by prominent personalities from within and outside the community, including government officials, traditional leaders, and representatives of various groups, all of whom commended the initiative as a model for community-led development.
