Tinubu Lauds Governor Otti For Transformational Governance

President Bola Tinubu’s highly anticipated one-day working visit to Abia State materialized through his representative, Minister of Works David Umahi, on Friday, October 3, beginning with the grand commissioning of the renovated Michael Okpara Auditorium before shifting to Aba for road projects.

The events, attended by thousands, symbolized a deepening federal-state partnership under Governor Alex Otti’s administration, with Umahi delivering Tinubu’s goodwill message of inclusive politics and regional reconciliation. Though Tinubu cited prior commitments, he assured a personal visit in December, praising Abia’s transformative infrastructure drive, which is made possible by Otti’s synergy with the legislature, headed by Emmanuel Emeruwa, the Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly.

From Umuahia, the entourage moved to Aba to unveil seven landmark roads, including the reconstructed Port Harcourt Road, a vital artery for the commercial hub’s bustling markets, Ndoki Road, among others. Umahi, flanked by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, hailed the projects as fruits of subsidy removal reforms, declaring, “The removal of the fuel subsidy is gaining momentum on projects, and we are beginning to see the benefits here in Abia State.” The day’s momentum built toward a unifying federal-state showcase of progress.

Governor Otti, beaming with optimism, reciprocated the federal gesture by recommitting to collaborative development. “Mr President and I have been friends for decades. Whatever he wants to do, he will tell you, and if he will not, he will say so. Having made promises, I am sure he will keep them,” Otti affirmed, underscoring decades-long ties with Tinubu. He also voiced hope on the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, stating, “He (Tinubu) is favourably disposed to it, and I am sure that in no distant future, Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom.” The governor’s remarks drew applause, signaling a thaw in South-East tensions..

Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, speaking at the reception encapsulated the legislative-executive harmony: “What we have seen is not overwhelming because our governor and this administration is very intentional; we were prepared before coming into office.” Under his watch, the assembly has swiftly passed bills that see to actualization of the New Abia.