We Are Building an Abia with Opportunity for All — Gov. Otti Tells Returning Aba Businessman, Sir Justine

Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building an Abia State where everyone has a fair shot—regardless of origin—stating that the state is now open for investment, innovation, and enterprise. The Governor made the remarks on Sunday while receiving a group of Aba businessmen, led by entertainment mogul and investor Mr. Justine Obiajunwa, who paid him a thank-you visit for creating a business-friendly environment.

The visit, which held in Umuahia, brought together entrepreneurs who had previously left the state due to insecurity, poor infrastructure, and governance challenges. But now, thanks to what they describe as “visible progress and peace under Governor Otti,” they’ve not only returned but are thriving.

“We are building an Abia that has opportunity for everybody,” said Governor Otti. “We just hired 5,394 teachers, and many of them are not even from Abia. A man from Akwa Ibom got in because of merit, not origin. That’s what matters to me.”

The Governor emphasized that inclusivity and competence are the cornerstones of his administration’s appointments and policies. “Cities that developed—New York, London, Paris—opened their doors to new people and fresh capital. We’re doing the same in Abia.”

Otti urged all entrepreneurs who left the state to reconsider. “If you’ve been gone for ten years but returned in December and are still here in July, then you’ve returned. It’s time to think home. There’s no better time than now.”

He praised the returning businessmen for their initiative and loyalty, especially as they came without being invited. “People often mean well but rarely take action. So your coming here, unprompted, means a lot.”

In an emotional speech, Mr. Justine Obiajunwa, founder of SJW Entertainment, recounted why he left Aba ten years ago and why he’s now back for good.

“I was born and raised in Aba but left for Lagos due to bad governance. I never stayed more than a week anytime I visited,” he said. “Now, I’ve been in Aba since Christmas, and I haven’t returned to Lagos. Aba today is peaceful. I stay out till 4 AM and feel safe. It’s like comparing Aba to Lagos now. That’s how far we’ve come.”

Other businessmen present echoed his sentiments, thanking Governor Otti for restoring investor confidence, ensuring security, and making business possible again in the city once known as the heartbeat of Eastern Nigeria’s commerce.

They pledged their full support for his administration and even beyond 2027, citing his visible achievements, transparency, and accessibility.

Also at the event was Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, Member representing Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency, who described Otti as “a man whose yes is yes,” praising his accessibility and sincerity—traits, he said, were missing in past leadership.

Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, who joined the meeting with some Assembly members, assured the visitors that the Governor’s development strides were evident across all 17 LGAs of the state.

“Everything he brings before the House is always in the interest of Abians. He does things the right way and insists others do the same,” Emeruwa said.

Also present was Dr. Mathew Ekwuribe, the Hon. Commissioner for Culture and Creative Economy.

As the meeting ended, one message rang clear: Abia is open for business. And for those still hesitant about coming home, Governor Otti’s message was simple—Now is the time.