President Tinubu Commissions Remodeled Michael Okpara Auditorium, Commends Governor Alex Otti’s Leadership

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has commissioned the newly remodeled Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia, praising Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for his commitment to infrastructure renewal and good governance.

The commissioning ceremony took place on Friday at the auditorium complex along Library Avenue, Umuahia. The project marks one of the major infrastructural transformations completed by the Otti administration.

Represented by the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, President Tinubu commended Governor Otti for reviving the historic structure with modern facilities and for embarking on development projects that directly impact the lives of Abia residents.

“Governor Otti, I commend you highly. Projects, whether Federal or State, the important thing is to touch the lives of the people of our States. So, we are very happy,” President Tinubu said.

He likened Otti’s leadership style to that of the late Dr. Michael Okpara, the former Premier of the Eastern Region, known for his visionary governance and development-oriented policies.

“Whether in APC, Labour Party, PDP or any other political leaning, we are happy with the Governor for what he is doing in the State for the people,” the president’s representative added.

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to integrating the South East into national politics and governance, noting that the region remains vital to Nigeria’s unity and progress.

Speaking earlier, Governor Otti expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for honoring the state with his presence, even through representation. He explained that the Michael Okpara Auditorium was in a deplorable state when his administration took office in 2023.

“This is the Michael Okpara Auditorium, which was left in a dilapidated state. Towards the end of 2023, we started working on it. I’m glad that today, it is a standing edifice worthy of beholding,” Otti said.

He noted that the remodeling project was executed to preserve the legacy of Dr. Michael Okpara while creating a functional and aesthetic public facility for state events and civic engagements.

“By the time we make a step inside, Your Excellency, you will be happy with the quality of work done,” the governor added.

The remodeled auditorium now features upgraded conference halls, digital lighting systems, modern seating, acoustic enhancement, and improved accessibility.

The event was attended by government officials, lawmakers, traditional leaders, and representatives from across the South East who commended Governor Otti’s infrastructural vision for Abia State.