Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on Nigerian governors and aspiring leaders to visit Abia State and draw inspiration from the exemplary leadership of Governor Alex Otti, whom he praised as a model of purposeful governance.
Jonathan’s commendation comes on the heels of similar accolades from former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also lauded Otti’s performance during the recent commissioning of the reconstructed 46.3-kilometer road in the state.
Speaking through Ambassador Godknows Igali at the 80s Reunion Dinner and Award Ceremony of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) Alumni Association in Umuahia, Jonathan, who was in Seoul, South Korea, receiving the 2025 Sunhak Peace Prize, described Otti’s administration as a shining example of intentional, result-driven leadership.
“The presence of Alex Otti in Abia State shows intentionality in leadership. He came prepared. Before now, when people heard ‘Aba made,’ they would laugh. But today, people are proudly embracing it,” Jonathan stated through his representative.
He urged leaders across the country to replicate the developmental strides being achieved in Abia, emphasizing that governance should always be about delivering impactful change.
Governor Otti, a UNIPORT alumnus, in his remarks, appreciated the association for choosing Umuahia as the venue for the reunion, marking 12 years since the last gathering in Port Harcourt under then-Governor Chibuike Amaechi.
He used the opportunity to encourage fellow alumni to consider public service, highlighting the potential for broader societal impact. “The political space allows you to positively impact the broader society, often in ways that surpass what’s possible in the corporate world,” Otti noted.
He also shared key milestones of his administration, including the ongoing renovation of 200 primary health centers and 221 schools across the state’s 184 wards. He revealed that 35% of the state’s budget is dedicated to education and health—20% and 15% respectively—underscoring his commitment to human capital development.
As part of the reunion activities, alumni toured various infrastructure projects initiated by the Otti administration.
The Vice-Chancellor of UNIPORT, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, applauded Otti’s developmental efforts and called on alumni in positions of influence to support the institution, particularly in addressing accommodation challenges faced by over 40,000 students and 5,000 staff.
Distinguished guests at the event included Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi, and NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku. The ceremony also featured the presentation of “Excellence & Service to Humanity” awards to outstanding alumni.
Governor Otti’s performance continues to earn him national recognition, positioning Abia State as a reference point for effective leadership in Nigeria.
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