NEWS
Gov. Alex Otti Commends Ohanaeze Ndigbo Leadership, Pledges Continued Support for Igbo Socio-Cultural Development
The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has lauded the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo under Senator John Azuta-Mbata, describing the administration as purposeful and impactful in serving the Igbo nation.
Governor Otti made the remarks on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026, during a courtesy visit to his office by the newly elected leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, led by the National Deputy President-General, Prince Okey Nwadinobi.
Highlighting the progress of the Mbata-led administration, Governor Otti emphasized that the support given to the Ohanaeze leadership was grounded in confidence in their capacity to deliver results for Ndi Igbo.
“We are very happy with the progress that has been made so far. Why you got the support is because we know who you are, we know you have the capacity to do the job. And one year after, I am sure that we are not disappointed.
“So, let him know that we understand and we can see the work that himself (Senator Mbata) and other members of the team are doing,” the Governor stated.
Governor Otti further affirmed that he had taken note of all issues raised during the visit.
“I took note of virtually everything you said. We are going to look at them and see where we fit in,“ he said, assuring the Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization of his unwavering support.
In a show of commitment, the Governor highlighted his interventions, including the renovation of the State Secretariat of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the clearance of years of arrears owed. He also congratulated the leadership on the near completion of the Ohanaeze National Secretariat and expressed his intention to participate in its commissioning. The Governor further applauded the leadership for the draft constitution that is set to be approved soon.
“And clearly what you are doing is visible. And, I want to encourage you to even do more for our people,“ Governor Otti added.
Earlier, the National President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, represented by Prince Okey Nwadinobi, commended Governor Otti for his pivotal role in supporting Igbo leadership. Prince Nwadinobi praised the Governor for “changing the narratives in governance and restoring the dignity of the Abia people,” citing unprecedented policies in education, healthcare, and road infrastructure.
“Almost every community has a health centre. Look at the road to Ohafia, we see what is happening in Aba. We can see there is progress everywhere,“ Prince Nwadinobi noted.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo leadership also outlined key initiatives, including the establishment of a seven-professorial-chair committee tasked with preserving the Igbo language from extinction.
Prince Nwadinobi extended gratitude to Governor Otti for his continued support and urged Southeast Governors to create safer and more conducive environments to encourage young Igbo entrepreneurs to return home and contribute to regional development.
The visit was attended by Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pst. Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D; Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, and o
ther senior officials.