Awards Can Wait: Governor Otti’s Humble Stand on Prioritizing Governance Over Glorification
In a political landscape often dominated by pomp and pageantry, Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has taken a bold and refreshing stance: awards can wait. From the outset of his administration, Governor Otti made it clear that his focus would be on delivering tangible results for the people of Abia, not on collecting accolades. In his inaugural speech in May 2023, he explicitly stated his refusal to accept chieftaincy titles, honorary degrees, or any form of celebratory recognition until his tenure ends. This principled decision, outlined in paragraph 44 of his address, underscores a commitment to humility, accountability, and service—a stark contrast to the self-aggrandizement that often characterizes public office.
Governor Otti’s stance is not just a personal choice; it is a statement about the kind of leadership Abia State—and indeed, Nigeria—needs. By prioritizing governance over glorification, he echoes the examples of global leaders like George Washington, who rejected royal trappings to uphold republican values, and Jacinda Ardern, who declined titles post-resignation to maintain her focus on service. In a state like Abia, where years of underdevelopment and systemic challenges demand urgent attention, Otti’s decision sends a powerful message: the work of rebuilding and transforming lives must come before personal recognition.
Governor Alex Otti: Beyond Social Media, A Leader of Substance and Merit*
In the dynamic landscape of Nigerian politics, Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has faced a recurring critique: detractors label him a “social media governor,” implying his achievements exist only in the digital realm. Yet, recent actions and unwavering principles reveal a leader whose governance transcends hashtags, rooted in tangible progress and ethical leadership.
Ngwa High School: A Symbol of Collaborative Governance
Governor Otti’s announcement of a collaboration with the Anglican Church to revitalize Ngwa High School in Aba epitomizes his hands-on approach. While critics dismiss his administration as “virtual,” this initiative underscores his commitment to partnerships and pragmatism. The rehabilitation of iconic school buildings—Pollard House, Engineering House, and the Administrative Block—began in 2023, signaling a deliberate effort to revive educational infrastructure.
By engaging the Anglican Church (the school’s custodian) and mobilizing alumni, Otti demonstrates that governance requires collective action. His candid admission of dissatisfaction with the school’s current state—and his resolve to intervene—reflects accountability. “If the school isn’t properly managed, people will ask, what are the old boys doing?” he remarked, challenging stakeholders to prioritize legacy over complacency.
As someone who attended Ngwa High School and left in 1988, I can attest to the pride and potential this institution holds. Governor Otti’s intervention is not just a policy move; it’s a personal commitment to restoring the glory of a school that has shaped countless lives.
Meritocracy: The Otti Doctrine
Governor Otti’s rebuttal to claims of nepotism is equally compelling. When Ngwa High School Old Boys praised his appointment of alumni to public roles, he clarified: “Our appointments are strictly on merit.” Highlighting the Permanent Secretary of Sports and Youth Development, Dr. Nwaigwe Cyril Chibuike, Otti emphasized rigorous exams and interviews as the sole criteria. “If you didn’t pass, you wouldn’t be here,” he stated, embodying a philosophy that talent, not connections, drives progress.
This meritocratic ethos mirrors global leaders like Lee Kuan Yew (Singapore), who transformed a resource-poor nation into a powerhouse by prioritizing competence, and Angela Merkel (Germany), whose “no-nonsense” leadership relied on expertise. Their motivation? A belief that meritocracy fosters public trust and national cohesion.
Rejecting Distractions: Awards Can Wait
Otti’s refusal of an award from the Class of 1983—reiterating his inaugural pledge to decline honors until leaving office—echoes leaders like George Washington, who famously avoided royal trappings to uphold republican values. Similarly, Jacinda Ardern (New Zealand) declined titles post-resignation, prioritizing humility. Their motivation: substance over symbolism. For Otti, this stance reinforces focus on governance, not accolades.
Why Media Matters: Education, Empowerment, Unity
While critics weaponize “social media governor” as a slur, Otti’s team should embrace strategic media engagement—not for vanity, but to educate, empower, and unify. The urgency of Abia’s challenges demands very robust, proactive media engagement.
Education: Detailed explanations of policies—such as school renovations, healthcare upgrades, and infrastructure projects—can combat misinformation and build public trust.
Empowerment: Platforms can be used to crowdsource ideas, report grievances, and celebrate citizen contributions. Like Elon Musk, who leverages media to inspire innovation, Governor Otti can inspire Abians to rethink public service as a calling, not a wealth accumulation option.
Unity: Abia’s centrifugal forces—historical neglect, regional tensions, political factions—threaten cohesion. Media can spotlight equitable development (e.g., projects in Aba, Umuahia, Ohafia) to prove no community is left behind.
Call to Action: Amplify the Vision
To strengthen Otti’s impact, the administration must host town halls to bridge gaps between government and grassroots. Leveraging local media—radio, newspapers, and influencers—can ensure rural areas are not left out. Documenting success stories, such as students from revived schools or entrepreneurs aided by grants, can inspire hope and participation.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
Governor Otti’s collaboration with the Anglican Church and merit-based appointments are not mere headlines—they are proof of a leader prioritizing legacy over limelight. In a state scarred by division and decay, his actions offer a blueprint for renewal. By marrying transparency with tenacity, Otti can silence critics and rally Abians toward a shared future. As Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew once said, “You must have confidence in your people… and back that confidence with action.” For Abia, that action has begun.
Let the naysayers tweet; history will record the results. Governor Otti’s leadership reminds us that public service is about service, not self-enrichment. Like Elon Musk, who redefined industries through innovation, Abians must rethink public service as a noble calling—a chance to uplift communities and leave a lasting legacy. The time for robust, proactive media engagement is now. The future of Abia depends on it.
Dr Chukwuemeka Ifegwu Eke writes from the University of Abuja Nigeria.
