Jonathan To Nigerian Leaders: Emulate Gov. Alex Otti's Mode Of Intentional Leadership
Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has lauded the leadership style of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, describing his approach as a model for governance in Nigeria and calling on leaders across the country to emulate his achievements.
The commendation came during the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) 80s Reunion Dinner and Award Ceremony, held on Saturday, April 12, in Umuahia, the Abia State capital. Themed "Celebrating Excellence & Service to Humanity,"the event brought together alumni of the university's 1980s graduating set and other prominent Nigerians.
Although Dr. Jonathan, an alumnus of UNIPORT, was unavoidably absent due to his presence in Seoul, South Korea, where he received the prestigious 2025 Sunhak Peace Prize, he was ably represented by Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, CON, who served as Chairman of the occasion.
In a speech delivered on his behalf, Dr. Jonathan praised Governor Otti's visionary leadership, particularly in changing the narrative around 'Aba-made' products, which were previously ridiculed but are now gaining national and international acclaim.
"The presence of Alex Otti in Abia State shows intentionality in leadership. He came prepared. Before, in Abia State, once they say "Aba made",people would laugh, but today, people are scrambling for Aba made,"Jonathan said.
"Let governance in Nigeria take a cue from what you are doing in Abia State the intentionality of leadership. Nigerian leaders should strive to make a change as Governor Alex Otti is making."
Amb. Igali further praised the impact of UNIPORT alumni on Nigeria's political and socio-economic development, noting that the university has produced six state governors, a vice president, and a president in the person of Jonathan.
The glowing endorsement from Jonathan came just a day after former President Olusegun Obasanjo also praised Governor Otti during the commissioning of the 46.36km Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Akara-Alayi-Abiriba Road, reconstructed by the Abia State Government. Obasanjo described Otti as a shining example of good leadership, asserting that his achievements show how Nigeria's challenges can be reversed with the right leadership.
Governor Otti, in his remarks at the UNIPORT reunion, thanked his fellow alumni for choosing Umuahia as the venue, urging them not to wait another 12 years before gathering again. He proposed Bayelsa State, under Governor Sen. Douye Diri (also an alumnus), as a possible host for the next reunion.
The Governor encouraged fellow alumni to join politics, noting that it provides a greater platform to impact society than the corporate world. He also invited the group to return and witness the transformation taking place in Abia’s health and education sectors, revealing that 35% of the state's budget 20% for education and 15% for health has been allocated to improve critical infrastructure across all 184 wards in the state.
The UNIPORT 80s Reunion programme included a tour of ongoing infrastructure projects across the state. The alumni expressed admiration for the rapid development under Governor Otti's administration, noting the visible facelift in less than two years.
UNIPORT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, commended Governor Otti for his support of the university, including building the Faculty of Social Sciences. He appealed for further assistance, especially in the area of student and staff accommodation, noting the university's population of over 40,000 students and 5,000 staff.
Chairman of the reunion's Steering Committee, Mr. Benjamin Owuapu Willie, traced the origin of the group to the loss of a beloved classmate, Mr. Eze Alomefuna (RICO), which led to the establishment of a trust fund for his family move that solidified their bond and birthed the now vibrant UNIPORT 80s platform.
The event also featured the presentation of Excellence and Service to Humanity awards to deserving alumni and was attended by notable dignitaries including:
Governor of Bayelsa State, Sen. Douye Diri
Former Governor of Rivers State, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi
Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku
Senior Abia State government officials and other distinguished guests
The event was a celebration of shared values, service, and leadership, with Governor Otti's development-driven administration taking center stage as a model for others to follow.
