A group under the aegis of “Country first Movement” has commended Governor Alex Otti for his people centric and transparent governance in Abia state since assumption of office two years ago.
Prof. Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr., Convener of the CountryFirst Movement, in a statement on Sunday said Otti’s governance approach has set a new benchmark in public administration in Nigeria.
According to him, Gov. Otti’s reform-minded leadership—focused on professionalism, data-driven decisions, and integrity—has redefined governance across key sectors of infrastructure, healthcare, education, security, and economic development.
Nwaokobia said , Gov. Otti has repeatedly maintained that his core mission is “to serve all Abians, not a few people.” Within days of assuming office, even as he declared states of emergency on critical sectors signaling a deliberate departure from past practices.
He noted that one of the most visible achievements of his administration is a widespread infrastructure renewal drive. Over 140 roads have been constructed or rehabilitated across the state, opening up rural areas and boosting local economies.
The statement pointed out his memorable achievements to include the expansion of Ossah Road into a six-lane boulevard—now Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard in Umuahia —has emerged as a flagship project reflecting the governor’s vision for modern urban development.
He added that In Aba, extensive road works and power projects are gradually restoring confidence among traders and investors.
In the social sector, significant investments have been channelled into healthcare and education. Under the Project Ekwueme initiative, primary healthcare centres across all 184 wards are being upgraded, alongside improvements at tertiary facilities such as the Abia State University Teaching Hospital.
The administration has recruited thousands of new teachers and commenced comprehensive school renovations. Long-standing salary and pension arrears have also been cleared, restoring morale among workers and retirees.
“These are not favours,” the governor said at a recent public forum. “They are obligations we owe our people as a responsible government.”
To stimulate economic growth, Otti has implemented reforms aimed at improving the business environment. Tax administration has been streamlined to ease pressure on small businesses, while enhancing overall state revenue. The establishment of the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park is part of a broader strategy to diversify the economy, attract investment, and create jobs.
He disclosed that Aba which has long been affected by infrastructure decline is now experiencing renewed commercial vibrancy, as Development partners and donor agencies have also returned to the state, citing improved credibility and governance discipline.
On security, initiatives such as the Operation Crush security outfit and enhanced inter-agency collaboration have strengthened safety and law enforcement across the state.
Transparency has become a hallmark of the administration. Payments in key ministries are now processed within 72 hours, while civil service recruitment emphasises merit and due process.
Across Abia, the consensus is widespread. Community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society organisations have described Otti’s mid-term performance as both “transformational” and “unprecedented.”
Further appraising the governor, Prof. Nwaokobia noted that Otti has demonstrated “vision, courage, and competence,” making Abia a leading example of reform-driven governance.
He said his organisation would soon publish detailed data documenting the administration’s achievements.
With reforms spanning infrastructure, human capital development, and institutional strengthening, many stakeholders believe the Otti administration offers a compelling case study of how purposeful leadership can turn vision into measurable progress.
