Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has commended the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, describing its current administration as focused, credible, and results-driven.
Governor Otti gave the commendation while receiving the leadership of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation at Government House, Umuahia.
The delegation was led by the National Deputy President-General, Okey Nwadinobi, on behalf of the President-General, John Azuta Mbata.
The Governor said the Mbata-led leadership has justified the confidence reposed in it, noting that the progress recorded so far reflects purposeful and visionary leadership.
“We are pleased with the progress made. The support you received was based on our confidence in your capacity, and one year on, it is clear that Ndi Igbo have not been disappointed,” Otti said.
He assured the organisation of his continued backing, stating that his administration would carefully review the issues raised by the delegation and offer support where necessary.
Governor Otti also highlighted his administration’s past interventions in Ohanaeze, including the renovation of its Abia State Secretariat and the settlement of long-standing arrears.
He congratulated the organisation on the near completion of its National Secretariat and pledged to be part of its commissioning.
Commending the leadership for initiating a draft constitution awaiting approval, the Governor urged Ohanaeze to intensify efforts toward promoting unity, development, and the collective interests of Ndi Igbo.
Earlier, Senator Mbata, represented by Prince Nwadinobi, thanked Governor Otti for supporting his emergence as President-General and praised the Governor for what he described as a clear departure from past governance norms in Abia.
He said Otti’s interventions in education, healthcare, and road infrastructure have restored public confidence in governance, citing improvements in healthcare delivery, road projects across the state, and visible transformation in Aba and other communities.
Prince Nwadinobi also disclosed that Ohanaeze plans to establish a seven-member professorial chair committee aimed at preserving and promoting the Igbo language, warning against the risk of cultural erosion.
He further called on governors of the South-East to prioritise security and regional stability to encourage Igbo entrepreneurs in the diaspora to return home and invest.
Dignitaries at the meeting included Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Caleb Ajagba; Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu; and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, among others.
