Governor Otti: Delivering Results, Defying Detractors

EBERE UZOUKWA, PhD

Governor Alex Chioma Otti’s bold decision to venture into politics in 2014—leaving behind a highly successful career as Chief Executive Officer in the banking sector—marked the dawn of a new era for Abia State. His resolve to join hands with other progressive-minded Abians to rescue a sinking state and reposition it for greatness has been evident in his style of governance. Today, Governor Otti has demonstrated not only preparedness but an unwavering commitment to fulfilling his electoral promises.

In just two years, Governor Otti’s administration has significantly improved the lives of Abians. His policies and programs have yielded measurable results across key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, waste management, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, and socio-economic development. These achievements are a testament to his vision and dedication to transformative leadership.

In the education sector, the administration has constructed model primary and secondary schools, while also investing in teacher quality and learning resources—thereby improving the overall learning experience for students. In healthcare, access to medical services has improved, particularly for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, nursing mothers, and infants, through the provision of free and subsidized care.

Under the ambitious ‘Project Ekwueme’, the government has completed 100 Primary Health Centres (PHCs), with another 100 at various stages of completion—totaling 200 PHCs in the first phase. This initiative aims to renovate, retrofit, and adequately equip over 900 PHCs across the 184 wards of the state. In addition, the reconstruction and upgrading of 10 General Hospitals are underway to strengthen secondary healthcare. The Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) and the Abia State Specialist Hospital have also been repositioned to deliver high-quality tertiary care and medical training.

Simultaneously, major roads are being reconstructed in Aba, Umuahia, and other parts of the state, significantly enhancing connectivity and stimulating economic activity. The introduction of 24/7 refuse disposal systems has transformed Aba and Umuahia into cleaner, healthier cities. Agricultural development initiatives are underway, and thousands of women and youths have benefited from empowerment programs tailored to enhance their economic independence.

The Otti administration has also made significant strides in digitizing governance. Fiber-optic internet has been deployed across public institutions in the state. The establishment of a Debt Management Office (DMO) has improved fiscal discipline and enabled the state to secure new funding for critical projects. Enhanced security through Operation Crush, a multi-agency security initiative, has contributed to a safer Abia. Furthermore, the establishment of the Abia Global Economic Advisory Board signals a clear intent to attract investment and stimulate long-term economic growth.

Despite these notable achievements, elements of the previous administration and other disgruntled actors have resorted to blackmail, misinformation, and divisive tactics aimed at derailing the governor’s progress. Yet, Governor Otti remains unshaken. His loyalty lies with the people—not with power brokers or political jobbers. His unwavering belief that power originates from God and the electorate reinforces his resolve to stay the course.

The recent political gathering at Umuobiakwa—the country-home of the immediate past governor—underscored the desperation of these political hawks to reclaim lost relevance and power. Their sole agenda: to malign Governor Otti and distract him from his transformative mission. But Abians have seen through the charade. The same individuals who plundered public resources and impoverished the people now seek a return to the corridors of power. Abians have resoundingly rejected them—and have no intention of returning to “Egypt.”

As Governor Otti continues to chart a course of good governance and genuine transformation, it is imperative to remind these displaced political actors that he will not negotiate the future of Abia with them. Rather, he will remain steadfast in advancing the New Abia—a state built on integrity, development, and the collective aspirations of its people.

Governor Otti deserves commendation for restoring hope and delivering measurable change. His selflessness and passion for progress will be remembered as a defining chapter in the history of Abia. His unwavering focus on fulfilling campaign promises and prioritizing citizens’ welfare is evident in the sweeping improvements across every sector.

In defying detractors and forging ahead with a people-centric agenda, Governor Otti is setting a new benchmark for leadership in Abia State. His administration’s dedication to accountability, transparency, and inclusive governance will continue to drive the state’s progress for years to come.

Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Affairs.