Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has expressed confidence that his successor in 2031 will outperform him, stating that his administration is laying a strong and irreversible foundation for the sustainable development of the state.
Governor Otti made this declaration during a grand reception service organized in his honour by the Assemblies of God Church, Okaiuga–Nkwoegwu, in Umuahia North Local Government Area. He described his administration as still being in its early stages, noting that Abia State is entering a decisive phase of accelerated growth and transformation.
According to the Governor, the era of stagnation in Abia has ended, emphasizing that the state has broken free from long-standing limitations that once hindered its progress. He assured residents that the reforms and structures currently in place would ensure continuity beyond his tenure.
“We are not yet three years into this administration. You can imagine what Abia will look like by 2031. The time for aggressive development is now, and that season has come,” Governor Otti said.
He added that the groundwork being laid would make it impossible for the state to regress, stressing that governance in Abia has moved beyond politics of setbacks and reversals.
Governor Otti also reflected on his faith, citing Psalm 62:11, which affirms that power belongs to God. He noted that leadership and success are guided by divine timing, explaining that no effort can succeed outside God’s will.
Responding to requests made by the church leadership, the Governor announced that the Assemblies of God Church would receive a Hummer bus for evangelism within the week, courtesy of philanthropist and business mogul, Prince Dr. Arthur Eze. He further directed his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D., to engage with the church to finalize arrangements for the allocation of land for a prayer camp.
Governor Otti thanked churches across Abia State for their continuous prayers and support, while expressing appreciation to the Assemblies of God Church for the reception organized in his honour.
Earlier, the District Superintendent of the Assemblies of God Church, Jerusalem District, Rev. Dr. Kenneth Ogbudu, described the event as a historic moment of gratitude. He praised Governor Otti as a transformational leader whose emergence has redefined governance in Abia State.
Rev. Ogbudu noted that unlike past administrations, the current government is driven by competence, transparency, accountability, and measurable impact. He highlighted the reconstruction of long-abandoned roads, which he said has reconnected communities, boosted economic activities, and restored the dignity of both urban and rural areas.
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He further commended the administration for introducing fiscal discipline, ensuring regular payment of salaries and pensions, and managing public funds with transparency and accountability. According to him, Governor Otti has shown uncommon courage in implementing institutional reforms and prioritizing public interest over personal gain.
The reception was attended by the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti; the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Hon. Obi Aguocha; the Deputy Speaker and members of the Abia State House of Assembly; senior government officials; and other dignitaries.