From TCNEWS
The foundation laying ceremony of a modern children’s leisure and recreational park in Abiriba, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, has been performed by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu.
The project (the recreational park) which has a contract sum of N119,606,659.41 ( VAT inclusive), with a contract duration of 14 weeks, and which was also attracted by the Mayor of Ohafia Local Government Area, Chief David Ogba Onuoha, Bourdex, is financed and sponsored by Fidelity Bank PLC.
When completed, the facility will include 5-a-side football pitch and children’s play area equipped with slides, swings, sales and sports units.
Performing the ground breaking foundation laying ceremony, Engr. Emetu, expressed gratitude to Fidelity Bank for their decision and willingness to invest such significant sum for the welfare and wellbeing of the people.
The Deputy governor reaffirmed the commitment of the present administration under Governor Alex Otti to ensure that the welfare of Abians remains the utmost priority.
While appreciating the Mayor of Ohafia Local Government Area, Chief David Ogba Onuoha, Bourdex, for using his contact and connections to influence the project, Engr. Emetu, advised the youths and Abiriba community to be accommodating to the project contractors.
The Mayor, Chief Ogba in his speech, commended the decision of Fidelity bank to embark on the project.
He explained that although Ohafia L.G.A is fast emerging as the third city in Abia State, despite the growth and development, the absence of playgrounds and recreational centres for post work relaxation has had a negative impact on the social and economic progress of the community.
He revealed that under his leadership as the Mayor of Ohafia Local Government, the Council aims to activate nightlife in the area by constructing well-equipped and illuminated playgrounds in each of the 11 INEC wards that made up the LGA to enhance the wellbeing of the rural populace.
He therefore expressed delight to witness the first one being built by Fidelity Bank PLC.
The Deputy National Chairman of Labour Party ( South East) Hon. Ceekay Igara and the member representing Ohafia South State constituency Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke (Etiokwe) in their various speeches thanked the Mayor for his giant strides and for attracting such a project that will enhance development to the LGA.
Presenting his address during the ceremony, the President General of the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union (ACIU), Chief Ochu Ejieke Ezikpe, who appealed/emphasized the need for the Bank to establish a branch in Abiriba, cited the community’s economic activities and the availability of employable young people.
Ezikpe who also assured the bank of adequate patronage and support from the community, also commended Chief Ogba for his contributions to the community in line with the foundational Precepts of “Bringing Wealth Back Home”, adding, from Antiquity Abiriba has been blessed with Men of Influence, Great Investors, Captain of Industries, Erudite scholars, Entrepreneurs, Board Members of Multinational companies and above all, People with rare love for their community.
In addition, the President General praised the bank for its social responsibility projects which will become the face of the “Modern Abiriba “.
Earlier, the Managing Director Fidelity Bank PLC. Mrs Nneka Onyaeli Ikpe who was represented by the Bank Head, Umuahia branch, Mrs Perpetual Grace explained that the centre is being built in support of Dr. Alex Otti’s led administration and in recognition of the Mayor’s contributions towards the growth of the bank over the years and in solidarity with his appointment as the Mayor of Ohafia L.G.A.
Other Government officials present at the ground breaking ceremony includes; Permanent Secretary Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy affairs, Mrs Chidinma Nwogu; Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade, Commerce and Industry, Chief Nwaka Inem; Head Of Department (Works) Ohafia L.G.A. Engr. Uka Nwankwo; Hon. Mandela Obasi, member representing Ohafia North State Constituency; Enachioken of Abiriba, HRM Eze Kalu Kalu Ogbu among others.