Governor Alex Otti vows to stay focused on delivering democratic dividends as he receives cyclist Wisdom Chisom, who rode from Lagos to Abia in his honour.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Abia State, stressing that no distraction will derail the government’s mission of ensuring the welfare and happiness of citizens.
Governor Otti made this assurance on Monday, October 27, 2025, shortly after the weekly State Executive Council meeting, where he received Mr. Wisdom Chisom, an Abia-born cyclist who rode a bicycle all the way from Lagos State to Abia in honour of the Governor’s outstanding developmental strides across the state.
“We are happy that our people are happy because the essence of government is to make your people happy – that is the welfare of the people. We will continue and will not stop,” the Governor declared.
He further expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support his administration continues to receive from Abians both within and outside the state, assuring that nothing will distract his government from transforming Abia through impactful governance and sustainable development.
The Governor, who learned about the cyclist’s journey from the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananba, after the Executive Council meeting, welcomed Mr. Chisom warmly and commended him for his patriotic gesture. He urged him to continue being a worthy ambassador of the state wherever he goes, noting that Abians consistently excel in their chosen fields across Nigeria and beyond.
In his remarks, Mr. Wisdom Chisom, who hails from Nunya in Isiukwuato Local Government Area, explained that he embarked on the long-distance cycling journey as a mark of respect and appreciation for Governor Otti’s transformational leadership.
He recounted his amazement at the progress made in his hometown, especially the reconstruction of the 11.5km Nunya-Eluama Road, which had been in a deplorable condition for decades before the current administration’s intervention.
“When I last visited my village, I couldn’t believe the transformation. I thought I was in a new place,” he said with excitement.
Mr. Chisom added that developments across the state, including modern infrastructure in Umuahia and new traffic light installations, inspired him to undertake the symbolic journey.
“I said no, I must cycle from Lagos to Abia to honour you, sir. This bicycle is not just a bicycle; it is a symbol of respect for your achievements,” he added emotionally to applause.
The cyclist also shared how his journey attracted admiration from law enforcement officers along the route.
“Whenever they saw your picture on my T-shirt, the policemen would smile and say, ‘He is a good man, go ahead!’”
Mr. Chisom revealed that he left Lagos on Monday and arrived in Umuahia on Saturday, insisting that he would not return until he had met the Governor in person to express his gratitude.
Governor Otti was joined by key members of his administration, including the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, the Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D, and other State Executive Council members, to receive the young cyclist.