Gov Otti holds thanksgiving service, flags off water projects, ecumenical centre in Abia

Politics

UMUAHIA, Nigeria (NPA) — Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the development of Abia State as he marked the third anniversary of his government with a thanksgiving service and the flag-off of major projects in the state.

Otti disclosed this on Sunday after a series of events held in Umuahia as part of activities commemorating his third year in office.

The governor said the thanksgiving service, held at the event centre near Okpara Square, provided an opportunity for reflection on the administration’s journey and to appreciate God for what he described as enduring faithfulness and progress recorded so far.

According to him, the achievements recorded by his administration would not have been possible without the trust, encouragement, and support of the people of Abia State.

“I want to sincerely thank Ndị Abia and everyone who has partnered with us on this journey. Your trust, encouragement, and steadfast support remain the cornerstone of our progress, and without you, the Abia success story would not be unfolding as it is today,” Otti said.

The governor also appreciated religious leaders, particularly Brother Emma Okorie, President of Living Word Ministries International, and other clerics whom he credited for their prayers and support since the beginning of his political journey in 2014.

He stated that their prayers and encouragement had continued to strengthen both him and the state government over the years.

Otti said he reminded worshippers at the thanksgiving service that his decision to serve God together with his household remained the foundation of the successes recorded by his administration.

As part of the anniversary activities, the governor proceeded to Umuagu Ibeku, where he flagged off the construction of an Ecumenical Centre expected to accommodate about 1,000 worshippers.

He explained that the project was tied to a personal vow he made years ago and disclosed that the land for the centre was acquired in 2009.

According to Otti, the proposed Ecumenical Centre is a private project and would not be funded with government resources. “The project is entirely private, and no government funds will be used to execute it,” the governor stated.

The governor later moved to Laguru in Ubakala, Umuahia South Local Government Area, where he simultaneously flagged off the rehabilitation of the ₦1.3 billion Ubakala Water Scheme and the Ariaria Water Scheme in Aba.

He said the projects were aimed at improving access to clean and safe water for residents in the benefiting communities.

Otti noted that the rehabilitation of the water schemes formed part of his administration’s broader commitment to improving public infrastructure and basic social services across the state.

The governor expressed optimism that with continued support from the people and divine guidance, Abia State would continue to witness greater transformation and development in the coming years.