Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reiterated his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in regard to the President’s bold and reformative economic policies.
Otti emphasized that President Tinubu’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy was both courageous and long overdue, adding that such action had always aligned with his personal economic stance long before his assumption of office.
The Governor made this known on Sunday during a visit by former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, and Senator Chris Adighije, former Senator for Abia Central. The two leaders visited Governor Otti at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, to commend his ongoing achievements in the state and to discuss matters of governance.
Speaking on his relationship with President Tinubu, Governor Otti said: “When people talk about supporting President Tinubu, it’s important to understand that our friendship predates politics or our current roles. We have always agreed on many issues, particularly on the economy. In fact, if you revisit some of my columns in ThisDay Newspaper during the COVID-19 pandemic, I made it clear that the fuel subsidy had become unsustainable and should be removed. The President has shown rare courage by acting on it.”
He stressed that Nigeria’s past economic mismanagement necessitated difficult corrective measures. “For years, we acted irresponsibly as a country, and now the painful but necessary correction is underway. It may be difficult now, but if we remain focused and united, we will eventually emerge stronger,” Otti noted.
On political distractions concerning future elections, the Governor cautioned against premature politicking. “It’s baffling that people are already talking about 2027 in 2025. There is no guarantee of even seeing beyond today. Only God determines tomorrow. Let us focus on today and get to work,” he declared.
Governor Otti also used the occasion to thank Senator Kalu for his past contributions to the state, particularly in infrastructure development. He recalled how his late mother had been a staunch supporter of Kalu due to the road projects he implemented during his tenure. “We are building upon that same template: fix the revenue-generating areas like Aba, and the returns will help develop the rest of the state,” he explained.
The Governor shared the inspiring story of a resident who donated ₦200 million to support the government’s infrastructural efforts in Aba, citing his disbelief that roads like Udeagbala could be reconstructed. “Now, Aba doesn’t sleep. Economic activities continue deep into the night. This is the practical impact of revitalizing urban infrastructure—money circulates, and businesses thrive. It’s not rocket science,” he said.
Otti further revealed plans to extend this economic vibrancy to other parts of the state. “I’ve directed the Commissioner for Works to develop a plan to light up the Umuahia to Ohafia corridor. We don’t want that axis to shut down by 6 p.m. We want an economy that operates like Lagos or Abuja, where life continues into the night,” he added.
In his remarks, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu praised Governor Otti’s performance and noted that his visit had been delayed due to an invitation by President Tinubu to attend his second-anniversary celebration in Lagos. “You are my friend and brother for life. Regardless of political differences or future elections, that will not change,” Kalu stated.
He expressed his delight over the state of roads in Abia, especially the one linking Igbere to Umuahia, describing the journey as smooth and swift compared to when it previously took over three hours. “You have done well for our state, and I want the world to know it. Abians will decide who leads them, and they know what’s best for them,” he added.
Senator Kalu urged Governor Otti to remain close to President Tinubu for the benefit of the state. “Support the President. I am not asking you to leave your party, but be close to him. That’s what matters,” he advised.
Also speaking, Senator Chris Adighije expressed pride in being an Abian and reaffirmed his support for Governor Otti. “I have no regrets supporting you. You’re doing extremely well, and it’s not about party politics—it’s about the progress of Abia State,” Adighije said. He also commended President Tinubu’s performance at the national level and joined Senator Kalu in encouraging Governor Otti to continue cooperating with the federal government.
Governor Otti concluded by reiterating his commitment to governance over politics. “We are not here to fight anybody or dwell on the failures of the past. We simply hit the reset button and got to work. Governance is a continuum, and even when it is broken, it must be restored,” he affirmed.