Governor Alex Otti has announced a transformative plan to restructure governance in Abia State by creating more Local Government Areas (LGAs), emphasizing that this initiative will bring government closer to the people and enhance service delivery.
Otti revealed this bold proposal during a civic reception organized by the Awomukwu Think Tank Forum to honor two distinguished sons of the community—Dr. Monday Ubani, who recently earned the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and Chief Davidson Alaribe, the 60th President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
Speaking passionately about the need for administrative reform, Otti noted that some LGAs in Abia are too expansive to be managed effectively as single entities. “When you look at some Local Governments, they are so big to even be two Local Governments,” he remarked. “Ikwuano is one of those Local Governments that should not be just one.”
Addressing Misconceptions
Anticipating potential concerns, Otti was quick to clarify that the proposed restructuring is not intended to divide communities but to enhance administrative efficiency. “I would also like to state immediately that this is not an attempt to divide you people; it’s just for administrative convenience,” he reassured.
This initiative aims to build on the current 17-LGA structure, paving the way for smoother governance and improved access to basic services.
Infrastructure Commitments
In addition to discussing governance reforms, the governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing pressing infrastructure needs in Ikwuano and other areas. Responding to appeals from residents, Otti highlighted plans to rehabilitate the Ariam-Usaka Road and other vital roads in the LGA.
He disclosed that the road project had been included in the proposed 2025 federal budget, thanks to advocacy from Senator Austin Akobundu. “Distinguished Senator Austin Akobundu had also whispered to me that Ariam-Usaka Road made it into the proposed 2025 Federal Budget,” Otti revealed. “If the money in the budget is not enough, we will put more money in and get it done this year.”
A Vision for Potable Water
Otti also unveiled an ambitious project to deliver potable water to communities across the state. Using the direct labor model, his administration has acquired advanced industrial drilling rigs capable of significant output.
“It is our decision to put pipe-borne water in the different communities in Abia State,” he said. “We have acquired a massive industrial drilling rig that can drill like 200 meters in an hour. This will ensure that Ikwuano benefits greatly from our 2025 water project.”
The governor emphasized the importance of basic amenities, pointing out that his administration’s approach to road construction and maintenance would be replicated in the provision of potable water.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Drawing from his personal journey and the accomplishments of the event’s honorees, Otti urged Abia’s youth to embrace hard work and resilience. “Believe in God, believe in yourselves, and pursue your dreams,” he said. “You are the only ones who can stop yourselves from achieving greatness.”
A Collaborative Approach
The civic reception underscored the spirit of collaboration between the governor and other political leaders. Senator Austin Akobundu, who chaired the occasion, pledged to work alongside Otti to ensure the development of the state.
“Abians are not interested in the rhetorics of political parties but in the dividends of democracy,” Akobundu declared. He lauded Otti’s inclusive leadership, which prioritizes development over partisan interests.
The celebrants, Dr. Ubani and Chief Alaribe, also expressed their gratitude to the governor for his presence at the event and his unwavering support for their achievements.
