Totalenergies Executives Pay Courtesy Visit To Gov. Otti, Hail His Leadership Style In Abia

A high-powered delegation of executives from TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited has commended the leadership style of the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, describing his administration as transformational, people-centred, and worthy of emulation.

The team, led by Engr. Obi Imemba, Executive Director, Joint Venture Asset, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Ltd and an indigene of Abia, paid a courtesy visit to Governor Otti at his residence in Umuahia. The visit followed their attendance at the burial of their late colleague, Engr. Chinwendu Ememanka, who was celebrated for his distinguished service to the company.

Speaking during the visit, Engr. Imemba explained that the delegation’s mission was not political but a demonstration of their admiration for Governor Otti’s rare leadership qualities that inspire confidence.

“Your Excellency, everyone here today is not here simply because you are the Governor. We are here because we see something extraordinary in your leadership. Everything rises and falls on leadership, and what you represent gives us confidence that Abia State is on the right track. We are proud to be associated with your brand of leadership,” Imemba said.

He added that the private sector often distances itself from government, but under Otti’s administration, professionals and intellectuals feel encouraged to collaborate. According to him, “We in the private sector usually shy away from the public sector, but under your leadership, the narrative has changed. We see progress, sincerity, and a willingness to partner. Many of us here have platforms for giving back, and we are willing to align with your vision to support the people of Abia State.”

In his response, Governor Otti thanked the delegation for their recognition and goodwill, stressing that leadership remains the foundation of societal progress.

“Everything succeeds or fails on the altar of leadership. As I often say, when intelligent people stay away from politics, they lose the right to complain when poor leadership takes over. It requires sacrifice to make a difference, and we all have a role to play in shaping the society we desire,” Otti said.

He assured the team of his administration’s openness to professional partnerships and reiterated his commitment to building Abia as a model state anchored on accountability, inclusivity, and excellence.

The Governor also paid glowing tribute to the late Engr. Ememanka, describing him as a man of excellence who left a strong mark both professionally and personally. He urged the visiting executives to continue supporting his family and sustaining his legacy.

Earlier, Mr. Onwuka Oreh, General Manager, Government Relations, TotalEnergies, praised Governor Otti’s strides, pointing to the historic reconstruction of the Omenuko Bridge, a once-dangerous structure that had claimed many lives before Otti’s intervention. He described the bridge as a symbol of responsive governance and evidence of Otti’s commitment to saving lives and improving infrastructure.

The visit ended with expressions of goodwill and a shared commitment to future engagements that would foster development in Abia State.

Other members of the TotalEnergies delegation included Eragbae Aikhoje, Executive General Manager, Field Operations Deep Water Asset; Cajetan Onu, Senior Advisor to the MD; Onwuka Oreh, GM Government Relations; and Nnamdi Amechi, GM Partners, Authorities and Regulators.