By Steve Oko, UMUAHIA
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State said his administration had, in 15 months, paid N90 billion out of the N191.2 billion debt inherited from the previous administrations
Also, he disclosed that Abia had recorded $159 million foreign direct investment between June 2023 and June 2024 under his watch.
Governor Otti said these during a media parley Thursday night in Umuahia.
He also declared that his administration had not borrowed money from any institution so far.
Otti explained that he had been judiciously deploying the resources of the state for infrastructural development, payment of salaries and pensions as well as other financial obligations of Government
‘I inherited N191bn debt’
Otti elaborated on the financial situation he inherited, saying, “In May 2023, I took over a staggering 1.3 billion from my predecessor, who himself had inherited an impressive N35 billion from his forerunner in 2015. Despite the heavy financial burden, my administration has successfully repaid over N90 billion of the debt we acquired. Each month, we remain committed to paying salaries and pensions, ensuring that our workforce is taken care of, all while maintaining a policy of not borrowing any funds from external sources.”
In discussing foreign direct investment, Governor Otti highlighted a significant shift in Abia’s economic standing. He proudly announced that the state has advanced from the 27th position to an impressive 3rd place among states attracting the highest levels of foreign investment. This remarkable progress stems from his administration’s strategic focus on developing crucial infrastructure and fostering a business-friendly environment, transforming Abia into an attractive hub for investors.
Otti remarked, “We recognized the importance of laying a strong foundation for sustainable investment initiatives. This commitment is why we are seeing an influx of investors into our state.” He emphasized that rather than actively pursuing potential investors, it is much more logical to cultivate an inviting atmosphere where they feel compelled to come and invest naturally, drawn by the conducive conditions we have worked hard to create.
“Investors don’t respond to empty promises; they pay attention to actions. Without running any formal campaign, we have already attracted investors who are interested in setting up their businesses in Abia.
Recently, Apostle Chibuzor of OPM brought a team of investors—one from Italy, another from Turkey, and one from the US.
That’s why we are committed to making Abia a more investor-friendly state. The Akaikenga Think Tank has also visited, and we are currently discussing plans for establishing a tech hub in Abia. Our goal is to encourage our people to return home and invest in their communities.”
Agric investments, road construction
Governor Otti recently highlighted his administration’s dedicated initiatives aimed at achieving food security for the people of Abia State. He revealed that he has allocated funding for 300 Abians who have been chosen by the state government to embark on a journey of learning modern farming techniques in Nasarawa State. This program is designed to equip them with the skills necessary to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability in their communities.
in pursuit of his administration’s vision, Governor Otti elaborated on the establishment of the Greater Ohafia Development Commission (GADO). This commission is a strategic move to ensure that no senatorial district remains overlooked in the government’s development plans. The governor emphasized, “We already have the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) and the Umuahia Capital Development Agency (UCDA); now we are completing this triumvirate to foster equitable development throughout the state.”
When discussing road infrastructure, the governor expressed his commitment to enhancing connectivity across Abia State. His administration has awarded contracts for the rehabilitation of several new roads, which will significantly improve access to various regions. Notably, the expansion of the 5-kilometer road from Onuimo Bridge to Abia Tower has been initiated, paving the way for smoother travel. Contracts have also been awarded for other important projects, including the 11.5-kilometer Ntigha Road, the 11.27-kilometer Mbala-Ngodo Isuochi Road, and the 11.5-kilometer Obehie-Owaza Road in Ukwa, among others.
In a promising update, Governor Otti shared that he has received assurances from Julius Berger, the construction firm responsible for the ambitious reconstruction of the vital Port Harcourt Road in Aba. They have committed to delivering the completed project by February 2025, marking a significant step toward improved infrastructure and overall development in the region.
The governor said that many road projects are on track and making good progress. These projects include the Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Ohafia Road, which will improve travel in the area. The Ohafia-Atochukwu Road is also being built to help people reach different communities more easily. The Ndiokorie Abam-Atochukwu Road will make it simpler for residents to get around and boost local business. He also mentioned that his administration continues to enforce the zero-pothole policy to keep roads safe and smooth for all drivers.
