Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has stated that refurbishing the Government House is not a top priority at the moment, emphasising that his administration is focused on projects that matter more to Abians.
However, he assured all that the seat of power would be fixed soon.
Speaking during the March edition of his monthly interaction with journalists on Friday, Otti remarked, “Abians want to see activities, not where their governor is staying,” adding that resources are scarce and are being directed to more critical needs.”
“You are worried that I am not operating from here; I don’t think you should worry about that. The important thing is that I’m operating”
“Where I live is not as important as having roads in Aba and Umuahia and ensuring that our people have good hospitals and schools,” the governor said.
Otti disclosed that while the governor’s office and lodge were in a “terrible state of disrepair” when he assumed office, they will be renovated “in no distant time.”
On funding for the state’s infrastructure projects, Otti described his strategy as “Financial Engineering,” stating, “How I manage the funds available to me is my trade secret.”
The governor revealed that of the 948 Primary Healthcare Centres in the state, 267 have been upgraded, and the Umunneato General Hospital has been transformed into a Specialist Hospital.
He also highlighted efforts to revive the education sector, noting that 222 schools have been identified for urgent attention.
On road infrastructure, Otti said that Julius Berger is working hard to complete the Aba–Port Harcourt road before the end of May.
He further assured all that the “Light-Up Abia” initiative and distribution of transformers will continue to enhance security and aesthetics across the state.
Speaking on security, the governor stressed, “We will not rest on our oars as security is our top priority,” and called for public support to sustain peace in Abia.”
Otti promised that the next 21 months will witness even more development activities, reaffirming his commitment to addressing the state’s pressing needs
