By Hon. Matthew Ekwuruibe
Hon. Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy
Abia State
When Governor Alex Chioma Otti assumed office on May 29, 2023, he met a state that was weighed down by decades of rot, systemic decay and underdevelopment.
Abia, a state once brimming with potential was reeling from years of infrastructural neglect, dysfunctional institutions, a demoralized civil service, poor healthcare and education systems, decayed road networks, and a general lack of vision in governance.
Aba, the heartbeat of the state’s commerce and industry, was in a sorry state; plagued by filth, flooding, and a failed municipal structure. The State capital, Umuahia, had lost its shine and the people of Abia had become disillusioned — yearning for a breath of fresh air.
Determined to reverse this trajectory, Governor Otti wasted no time in setting the tone for his administration. One of his note-worthy interventions was the declaration of a state of emergency in key sectors: health, education, road infrastructure, and environmental sanitation.
His goal was clear: to restore confidence in governance and reposition Abia as a competitive player in the Nigerian and global economy. With this declaration came immediate action as bulldozers rolled into the streets, health centres were assessed for upgrade, public schools reviewed for reform, and the streets of Aba and Umuahia began to wear a clean and green outlook.
True to his technocratic and result-driven approach to governance, Governor Otti has since embarked on an aggressive and holistic transformation of Abia State’s economy. In just two years, his administration has delivered a number of signature projects and reforms that have placed Abia on the path of sustainable development. From the rehabilitation of over 130 kilometres of strategic roads across the three senatorial zones to the flag-off of the state’s first airport project, the Otti administration is redefining what is possible in governance.
The health sector, once in shambles is receiving historic attention. Primary healthcare centres are being revitalized, general hospitals equipped with modern medical equipment, and the Abia Medical City project, a flagship initiative aimed at transforming the state into a medical tourism destination is underway. This is not just about infrastructure, it’s about access, quality and a dignified health experience for every Abian.
In education, Governor Otti has launched several initiatives to revive public schools, improve teachers welfare and provide modern learning tools. The Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) has been energized to monitor and enforce discipline among teachers, ensuring punctuality and dedication to duty. New school blocks are being constructed, while existing ones are being renovated, all aimed at restoring confidence in public education.
The economic vision of the administration of Governor Otti is built on industrialisation and export-led growth. The Aba Export Growth Lab, already commissioned, is empowering local manufacturers with capacity-building, access to finance, and export opportunities. This initiative is part of the broader Growth Export Pillar of the state’s economic rejuvenation agenda, which has positioned Aba once again as the small and medium enterprise (SME) capital of Nigeria.
Security has also been a top priority. Through partnerships with local vigilante groups, the Nigerian Police, and community leaders, Abia is witnessing a more secure environment for businesses and residents. The Abia Homeland Security and other strategic agencies have been instrumental in reducing crime and boosting investor confidence.
Transportation in Abia is gradually being revolutionized. The proposed Abia airport, the introduction of mass transit systems, and improved road networks are easing the burden of mobility in tandem with the infrastructure development taking place on our roads. From Ariaria to Osisioma, Umuahia to Ohafia, movement of goods and people has never been smoother. These developments are unlocking economic opportunities and expanding the frontiers of commerce across the state.
Institutional reforms are another hallmark of the Otti administration. MDAs have been directed to implement capacity building and staff development programmes aimed at creating a productive service-oriented civil service. The culture of impunity and wastage that once defined our State’s bureaucracy is giving way to accountability, transparency, and innovation.
Governor Alex Otti, unsurprisingly, has remained independent and fearless in his leadership. He is not beholden to any political godfather or clique. His mandate came directly from the people and his loyalty remains with them. This has empowered him to make bold decisions without the encumbrance of vested interests or party compulsions.
In the past, Abia was held hostage by mediocrity masked as leadership but today, the difference is evident. Abians no longer wait for federal allocations to measure progress as they now experience governance through visible infrastructure, working systems, and renewed hope.
The Alex Otti template is not just about projects, it’s about a complete paradigm shift in public service delivery.
As he looks into the future, Governor Otti is focused on building a legacy of excellence. His eyes are set on an Abia that is self-sufficient, technologically driven, industrialised, and globally respected. With continued support from Ndi Abia, the journey to the promised land is no longer an idea but is already in motion.
Indeed, in a state long denied its full potential, Governor Otti has proven that you don’t need permission to start. You only need vision, courage and the trust of the people.
