Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has stated that his re-election bid for a second term in office lies in the hands of God.
He made the remarks at a civic reception held in his honour by the Oha Isiala Ngwa People of Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas at Okpuala Ngwa Stadium, where he was endorsed by his Oha Ngwa clan as their sole candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial election.
While expressing gratitude for the endorsement, the Governor said he would continue to seek divine guidance before making a formal decision regarding 2027.
“Just like 2023 was in the hands of God, 2027 will also be in the hands of God,” he said. “While I appreciate your endorsement, which I understand to be a recognition of the work done so far, I will continue to consult with God, and in due course, I will make my position known.”
Governor Otti highlighted the strategic importance of Aba to his administration’s economic development plan, explaining that investment in the city is aimed at increasing internally generated revenue to fund projects across the state.
“Aba occupies a central place in our development strategy—not just for Abia, but for the South East and South-South. The city’s economic potential is key to our vision for statewide development,” he said.
On infrastructure, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and announced that the Mgboko–Ntigha road project is on track for completion by December. He also addressed concerns regarding the siting of the Abia Airport project in Nsulu, stating that the decision was based on technical feasibility, not politics.
“We are not just building an airport—we are building an airport city,” he explained. “There will be hotels, shopping plazas, and even a Nigeria Air Force base. It’s a long-term economic project for the benefit of Abia people.”
Governor Otti added that full compensation has been paid to all verified landowners affected by the airport project, while any unresolved cases are due to documentation issues.
He also welcomed new members from various political parties, including former members of the PDP and Accord Party, as well as representatives of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, who formally declared their support for the Labour Party.
As part of his commitment to grassroots development, Governor Otti announced plans to upgrade the Sam Ihesiulo Stadium in Okpuala Ngwa to a modern sporting facility and directed the Commissioners for Works and Youth & Sports to begin the process.
Lawmakers including Rep. Ginger Onwusibe, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, and Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu praised the Governor’s leadership and encouraged him to seek a second term, citing achievements in infrastructure and governance.
The Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Obinna Anaba, and another stakeholder, Mr. Cyril Ishmael, also commended the administration’s efforts in improving social welfare, infrastructure, and economic reforms.
In his remarks, Dr. Ugochukwu Agu, President of the Ngwa National Association in the USA and Canada, lauded the Governor’s performance, especially in the education sector. He noted that the diaspora community is supporting the government’s development goals through scholarships and skills acquisition programs.
Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive, people-focused governance, pledging to continue efforts that would ensure sustained growth and development across Abia State.
