By Douglas Okoro

A mining company has commenced an 8 kilometre road construction work along Ubegbu–Onuavia in Ihietutu Community, Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi.

The work is being sponsored by the mining company, Ambertone Logistics Company, operating in the area.

Mr Ebuka Iwuji, a top management staff of the company, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Ishiagu that the project was awarded at the cost of N3 billion to an indigenous firm, FELJESON Nigeria Ltd.

He said the project, with a four-month completion period, is scheduled for delivery in December.

According to him, the road, which stretches from the Ihietutu town hall at UBEGU to the company’s mining site at Onuavia, will provide access to farming areas among other benefits.

“The project, which is already witnessing site activities including drainage construction on both sides, is not part of our Community Development Agreement (CDA).

“It is an additional gesture from the company to support our host community.

“It was awarded to a company owned by an indigene of the community and fully funded by Ambertone Logistics.

“When completed, it will significantly improve movement of farm produce and enhance development in the area,” Iwuji said.

Iwuji added that Ambertone Logistics remained committed to infrastructure and human capital development in line with its obligations to the host community.

“This is where we do our business; it is our responsibility to ensure improvement in the socio-economic and infrastructural wellbeing of the community.

“If the people are happy, God will bless us and expand our business,” he said.

He noted that the road project would also ease access to the mining site and open up the community for further development.

Some community members who spoke with NAN commended the company for embarking on what they described as “a people-oriented project”.

Mr Bernard Chukwu, a community leader, said the project would transform agricultural and commercial activities in the area.

“We are grateful for this road because it has been one of our major challenges. With this development, farmers will find it easier to transport their produce and traders will have better access to the markets,” he said.

Mr Jeremiah Okoro, another resident, lauded the company’s contributions to youth empowerment, security, peace and infrastructure in the area.

“Beyond this road, Ambertone has continued to honour its commitments under the CDA. They have supported security initiatives, empowered youths and promoted peace in our community,” Okorie said.

Also, Mr Kingsley Onyebuchi described the project as a demonstration of the company’s goodwill.

“All we can do is pray that God blesses (the) company abundantly, and show him more prosperity in our land,” he said(NAN). (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba