Abia’s 2024 Christmas Carol: A Song of Praise for Otti’s Leadership
Ebere Uzoukwa, Ph.D
At the 2024 Abia Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons, held at the Abia International Conference Center, Umuahia, on Sunday, December 22, the atmosphere was filled with joy, gratitude, and praise for Governor Alex Chioma Otti’s transformational leadership. This year’s celebration is unique, given the significant strides Governor Otti has made in just one year and eight months, transforming Abia’s infrastructure, economy, and socio-economic landscape.
The impact of Governor Otti’s administration is evident across various sectors. In infrastructure development, Abia has witnessed a massive transformation, marked by the disappearance of dilapidated roads and the emergence of new ones. For the first time in decades, Abians can celebrate Christmas driving to their communities on good roads. The ongoing retrofitting of Abia hospitals and renovation of 200 primary health centers are also notable achievements.
In education, Governor Otti has implemented policies and programs aimed at improving the quality of education in the state. His administration has also made significant strides in the health sector, renovating and equipping hospitals and health centers across the state. These efforts have yielded positive results, with improved outcomes in both areas.
Agriculture has also received significant attention from the governor, with initiatives aimed at improving agricultural production and productivity. The empowerment of over 300 trained Abians at CSS Farm, Nasarawa State, with over 600 million naira is a testament to the governor’s commitment to agricultural development. Partnerships with private sector operators have been established to promote agricultural development and mechanized farming in the state.
Governor Otti’s commitment to good governance and his covenant with God have been evident in his actions and decisions. He has consistently returned glory to God, visiting and worshiping in different churches since assuming office. The governor’s administration is guided by the principles of truth, transparency, accountability, and honesty, as evident in his social contract with Abians.
As Abians celebrate Christmas, they can do so with gratitude and praise for Governor Otti’s leadership. The payment of a 13th-month salary to Abia workers and a special Christmas package for traditional rulers demonstrate the governor’s commitment to the welfare of Abians. The First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, has also been actively involved in promoting the welfare of Abians through humanitarian programs and impactful initiatives.
The governor’s efforts to improve the state’s economy have yielded positive results. Local and foreign investors are now present in Abia, a testament to the governor’s commitment to creating a conducive business environment. The state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has also increased significantly, providing more resources for the governor to execute his development projects.
In addition to these achievements, Governor Otti has demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of Abia’s most vulnerable citizens. His administration has implemented programs aimed at supporting the poor, the elderly, and people with disabilities. The governor’s compassion and empathy for the less privileged have endeared him to the hearts of Abians.
As Abia celebrates Christmas, the state is filled with a sense of hope and optimism. The governor’s transformational agenda has brought about a new era of development and progress in the state. Abians can look forward to a brighter future, knowing that their governor is committed to working tirelessly to improve their lives.
In the words of Bob Fitts’ song, “One Song of Praise,” Abians can join in singing: “God of great courage, source of our strength, grant us the spirit of unity, so that with one heart, with one song of praise, we may glorify you, Lord, all of our days.”
As Abia celebrates Christmas, the song of praise for Governor Otti’s leadership will continue to reverberate across the state, a testament to his commitment to good governance and the welfare of Abians.
Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the SSA on Public Affairs to the Governor of Abia State.
