Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has commended Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, OFR, for the significant economic progress recorded in the state under his administration.
The President and Chairman of the Council of CIBN, Prof. Pius Olarenwaju, gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to Governor Otti at the Government House, Umuahia.
Prof. Olarenwaju said Abia had posted impressive economic indicators, including a 10 per cent increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), an eight per cent reduction in poverty, increased investment inflows and the creation of over 10,000 jobs.
“You have, within a short time, recorded remarkable achievements—10 per cent GDP growth, eight per cent poverty reduction, significant investment inflows and over 10,000 jobs created. We read about these in the media, but seeing them firsthand is even more reassuring,” he said.
The CIBN President also praised improvements in the social sector, citing strengthened healthcare delivery, reduced mortality rates, the introduction of health insurance and upgraded education infrastructure driven by free education policies.
He further commended ongoing road projects and other infrastructural developments, describing them as evidence of purposeful governance, while applauding the state’s Operation Crush security initiative for enhancing safety, boosting economic activities and restoring confidence among youths.
Prof. Olarenwaju acknowledged Governor Otti’s contributions to the banking and finance profession, describing him as a goodwill ambassador of the Institute whose performance in public office has become a source of pride to CIBN.
He disclosed plans by the Institute to host an event later in the year to honour outstanding former bank chief executives for their contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s banking industry.
Calling for deeper collaboration, the CIBN President urged stronger partnership with the Abia State Government in areas such as financial literacy, financial inclusion, infrastructural development and the completion of the CIBN state office.
He revealed that CIBN is implementing a national programme to train 10 million women and youths on financial inclusion, stressing that financial literacy remains the foundation of economic empowerment.
“Financial inclusion is impossible without financial literacy. We are deliberate and intentional about this programme and we want the active involvement of Abia State,” he said.
Responding, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustainable development and closer collaboration with the Institute, noting that his relationship with CIBN is already well established.
The Governor highlighted key achievements of his administration, including job creation, economic growth, poverty reduction, free and compulsory education, and improved healthcare delivery.
He disclosed that the free education policy has resulted in over a 100 per cent increase in school enrolment, adding that 5,394 teachers have been recruited, while the process of employing an additional 4,000 is ongoing.
Commending CIBN’s efforts in curriculum reform, Governor Otti expressed interest in adopting the Institute’s updated curriculum across state-owned tertiary institutions and welcomed proposals on regional conferences, financial literacy programmes and broader areas of collaboration.
“Financial literacy is critical. Even those who think they know often make costly investment mistakes simply because of lack of knowledge. I am therefore pleased that the Institute is driving this initiative,” Otti said.
