Gov. Alex Otti Pledges to Institutionalize Reforms as He Marks Two Years in Office
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his commitment to institutionalizing the impactful reforms initiated during his administration, as he marked his second year in office with a thought-provoking anniversary lecture delivered by former Minister of Finance, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu.
The event, held at the JAAC Building in Umuahia, drew top dignitaries, captains of industry, policy experts, and members of the public who gathered to assess and celebrate the transformational progress made in Abia over the past 24 months.
In his address, Governor Otti emphasized that the remaining two years of his first term would be focused on ensuring that the structural and policy changes introduced by his government become part of the fabric of Abia’s governance.
“We shall commit the remaining two years of this term to institutionalizing the reforms that have been initiated,” he said. “Collectively, we shall make Abia the hub of transformational ideas. We shall not be tired of listening to undebated new ideas, for that is the path to continuous growth and progress.”
Responding to points raised in the keynote lecture, Governor Otti defended his prudent financial management strategy, highlighting that his administration has prioritized fiscal discipline, contractor payments, and the clearance of salary and pension arrears.
“I only borrow when I need to borrow. The first thing we did here was to inculcate financial discipline and responsibility. Because of how we’ve managed our finances, we’ve been able to play down loans, pay our contractors, and defray arrears,” the governor noted. “Sometimes, it even makes more economic sense to pay rather than keep the money in the bank.”
He added that the lecture was organized as a moment of self-evaluation and honest reflection to measure the state’s progress and areas for improvement.
“No human endeavor is perfect, for even our best output today can be made better. We are required to be open to honest assessment and constructive engagement with those watching keenly from the sides,” he stated.
Delivering the lecture titled “Two Years of Transformation: Sustaining the Momentum,” Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu commended Governor Otti’s visionary leadership, describing his administration’s performance as “spectacular.” He praised the governor’s focus on the health sector, education, and infrastructure, asserting that such achievements have increased his popularity well beyond Abia State.
“The camaraderie and dedication of Governor Otti, his deputy, and their team is reminiscent of the golden era of the old Imo State,” Dr. Kalu said. “Abians are genuinely excited about this two-year journey of solid stewardship.”
He also weighed in on the borrowing debate, advocating for strategic borrowing to support investments and catalyze economic growth.
“There is nothing inherently wrong in borrowing if you’re creating value. Borrowing, in fact, enhances broader growth, job creation, and capacity building,” the former finance minister stated.
The event was graced by prominent Abians, political appointees, professionals, and community leaders who lauded the administration’s unwavering commitment to development, good governance, and transparency.
