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Otti: Sustaining the Momentum in Abia Road Infrastructure By Ebere Uzoukwa, PhD

Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has continued to demonstrate unwavering commitment and visionary leadership in transforming Abia’s road infrastructure landscape. His administration’s latest action, the approval of new contracts for the reconstruction of major state and federal roads, has further strengthened the ongoing narrative of progress, renewal, and purposeful governance.

In what can best be described as another bold stride toward accelerated development, the State Executive Council, under the leadership of Governor Otti, on Monday approved the reconstruction of key roads across four local government areas. These include the 25 kilometre Umuahia Ikot Ekpene Road (a federal road), the 13.1 kilometre Ariam Usaka Ring Road in Ikwuano Local Government Area scheduled for flag off on October 24, 2025, the 9.35 kilometre Ihechiowa Arochukwu Ring Road, the 4.9 kilometre Isieketa Mba Itungwa Mgbedeala Road in Isiala Ngwa South, and the 3.72 kilometre Ogidi Umuala Eziama Ntigha Road in Isiala Ngwa North.

These projects are not isolated interventions. They represent a continuation of a clearly defined development blueprint that has placed Abia on the path of sustainable growth. Since assuming office, Governor Otti has taken road construction and rehabilitation in the state to record heights, extending across both urban and rural communities. From the capital city of Umuahia to the remotest parts of Arochukwu, Ikwuano, Isiala Ngwa, Obingwa, Umunneochi and other local government areas, the evidence of his commitment is both visible and measurable.

Governor Otti’s approach to infrastructure development transcends conventional governance logic. He has consistently emphasized that roads are arteries of progress, connecting people, goods and opportunities. To him, the classification of roads as federal or state is immaterial when the welfare of the people is at stake. That is why his administration has undertaken the reconstruction of several long abandoned federal roads in Abia, deploying state resources for projects that directly benefit citizens. For Governor Otti, governance is about the public good, not jurisdictional boundaries.

Perhaps the most compelling testament to this transformative drive is the ongoing revolution in Aba, the commercial heartbeat of the South East and South South. Once defined by decay and infrastructural collapse, the great Enyimba City is steadily reclaiming its lost glory. Roads such as Portharcourt Road, Cemetery Road, Ohanku Road and Omuma Road, among others, have undergone remarkable reconstruction, breathing new life into commerce and restoring confidence among traders, investors and residents. Under Governor Otti, Aba is once again emerging as the symbol of industrial vibrancy, entrepreneurial energy and urban renewal.

Beyond the roads, the Otti administration has maintained momentum in other critical sectors such as education, healthcare, civil service reform and economic revitalization, all anchored on a transformation agenda that is both impactful and people centred. His vision remains clear: to build a new Abia founded on accountability, inclusiveness and sustainable development.

While some politicians have already begun plotting ahead of the 2027 elections, Governor Otti remains undistracted and firmly focused on the task of governance. He understands that power ultimately belongs to God and the people, and that genuine leadership is best justified by performance, not propaganda. Through his words and actions, he continues to exemplify humility, discipline and a deep sense of service, driven by the conviction that good works will always speak louder than political noise.

As Abia continues to experience one of the most ambitious infrastructure renewals in its history, it is clear that Governor Alex Otti’s legacy will not be measured merely by the kilometres of roads built or reconstructed, but by the hope restored, the confidence rekindled and the progress sustained. Through focus, integrity and faith, Governor Otti is not just building roads, he is connecting communities, empowering lives and redefining the essence of leadership in Abia State.

Dr Ebere Uzoukwa is the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Abia State on Public Affairs.

OWUWANYANWU AUTONOMOUS COMMUNITY PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO DIRECTOR GENERAL OF GODA

The Traditional Ruler of Owuwanyanwu Autonomous Community in Ohafia Local Government Area, His Royal Highness Eze Uduma Amogu, led a delegation of community leaders on a courtesy visit to the Director General of the Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA), Elder Engr Obinna Agwu Odum, at his residence in Ugwu Abba, Asaga Ohafia.

The delegation, comprising the President Generals, youth leaders, and representatives from all constituent villages of the Owuwanyanwu Autonomous Community, namely Okagwe, Ndi Uduma Ukwu, Ndi Aku, and Oboro, expressed their deep appreciation for the ongoing developmental strides being recorded under the present administration of Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, through the instrumentality of GODA.

Speaking during the visit, Eze Uduma Amogu commended the vision and commitment of Governor Otti in establishing the Greater Ohafia Development Authority, describing it as “a clear demonstration of his passion for balanced rural development and infrastructural renewal across Abia State.”

The royal father noted that the people of Owuwanyanwu Community were particularly grateful for the road construction project initiated in Okagwe, which has already begun to improve access and stimulate economic activities in the area. He, however, appealed for the extension of the ongoing road project from Okagwe through Nkwebi to the Ohafia–Abam Road, citing the deplorable condition of the existing route and the immense hardship it causes to commuters and residents.

According to him, “We came here first to appreciate the work God is doing through our dear governor, Dr. Alex Otti, and the leadership of GODA. But we are also here to humbly appeal that the ongoing road project be extended to connect our other sister communities. The road is in a terrible state, and movement has become a daily struggle. We believe that with the governor’s compassion and the DG’s commitment, help will soon come.”

The Director General of GODA, Elder Engr Obinna Agwu Odum, who warmly received the delegation, appreciated the visit and assured the community that their concerns would be duly communicated to the appropriate authorities. He reiterated GODA’s commitment to executing projects that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of the people across Ohafia and Abia North Senatorial District.

The visit ended on a positive note, with expressions of goodwill and mutual commitment to the shared goal of transforming the Greater Ohafia region through purposeful leadership and community collaboration.

 

OBICARE MEDIA TEAM
11-10-2025.

Governor Otti, Business Community Again Unite for Aba’s Rebirth By Ebere Uzoukwa, PhD

The story of Aba, long regarded as the commercial heartbeat of Eastern Nigeria, is being rewritten under the purposeful leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR. Once a city suffocated by neglect, insecurity, collapsed infrastructure and poor planning, Aba is now experiencing an unprecedented revival driven by reforms, strategic partnerships and a renewed commitment to good governance. Central to this rebirth is the synergy between Governor Otti’s administration and the Aba business community, whose collaboration is laying the foundation for Aba’s restoration as the economic nerve centre of the South East and South South.

At the recent Aba Stakeholders Security Trust Fund Raising Luncheon, the governor reassured investors and residents that his administration will never compromise on security, noting that safety remains the bedrock of development. He expressed deep gratitude to Abians, friends of Abia and especially the Aba business community for their continued support of the New Abia project, promising never to take such goodwill for granted. Every donation, he assured, will be properly accounted for, even as he urged citizens to dismiss false propaganda about mismanagement of funds, stressing that Abia’s resources under his watch are safe and prudently managed. The strong presence and active participation of Aba’s business leaders at the event underscored their determination to walk hand in hand with government in building a safer and more prosperous Enyimba City.

The governor also used the occasion to announce milestones that further highlight his reform agenda. Prominent among them was the disclosure that Port Harcourt Road, Aba, abandoned for more than two decades and fully reconstructed by his administration, will be officially commissioned on October 3rd, 2025, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The iconic 6km stretch, once a symbol of decay, has now become a landmark of renewal and dignity for Aba residents. The ceremony, which will also feature the commissioning of six other strategic roads across Abia, promises to be historic, a carnival like celebration of resilience and transformation. It sends a clear message that Aba will no longer be left behind.

Beyond roads, Governor Otti has also provided institutional backing for Aba’s rejuvenation through the establishment of the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA). Since its creation, GADA has been spearheading urban renewal, drainage projects, waste management and infrastructural planning aimed at repositioning Aba and its surrounding local government areas. Its interventions are gradually giving Aba a structured and modern outlook befitting a commercial hub of regional importance.

Otti’s determination to tackle challenges that had overwhelmed previous administrations is also evident in the recovery of Ovom Street in Aba North, where devastating erosion had cut off the area for years. Today, that menace has been fully addressed, restoring normal life and economic activity in the area. This feat, which eluded past governments, illustrates Otti’s resolve to translate promises into tangible results.

It is increasingly clear that Governor Otti embodies the true spirit of an “Aba Boy.” Unlike some of his predecessors who merely used the title for political convenience and deceit, Otti has demonstrated his bond with the city through consistent action. His vision for Aba’s industrial revival dates back to his banking days when he championed the idea of steady power supply for the city. Today, through his partnership with Aba Power, uninterrupted electricity has become a reality for Aba and adjoining LGAs, giving artisans, traders and industries a fresh lease of life and enhancing productivity across sectors.

What stands out in all of this is the partnership model that defines Otti’s governance style. By deliberately working with the Aba business community, stakeholders and investors, he has built a coalition of progress in which everyone has a stake in Abia’s future. From road projects to erosion control, from power reforms to security investments, the transformation of Aba is a collective effort anchored on trust, accountability and shared vision.

The ongoing reforms in Aba are not stopgap measures but part of a carefully crafted agenda designed for long term sustainability. Governor Otti’s emphasis on transparency, his reliance on partnerships and his resolve to address long neglected issues provide strong assurance that the transformation of Abia will not only be sustained but will outlive his administration. For the first time in decades, Aba is truly rising again, and with the unity of government and the business community, the dream of restoring Aba as the economic powerhouse of Eastern Nigeria is no longer deferred but unfolding before the eyes of all.

Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Abia State on Public Affairs.

The Adoption and Signing of the Abia State Mini-Grid Regulation: 5 Things to Know by Dodoh Okafor

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, the Abia State Government led by Governor Alex C. Otti, OFR, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Solar Alliance and formally adopted the State’s Mini-Grid regulatory framework.

The central idea of the initiative as the Governor said at a well-attended event at the Banquet Hall of the Government House Umuahia was to create a pathway to reliable electricity supply for our people in the un-served and under-served communities. Central elements of the Mini-Grid Regulatory framework as adopted include the protocols for registration and licensing, pricing, dispute resolution, interconnectivity, infrastructure sharing, and assets transfer.

The document is as comprehensive as it can be, although the Governor in his usual modesty acknowledged that as technology and market realities changes, adjustments would be made here and there to keep the system responsive to the needs of the population.

I was at the stakeholder interaction organized for the presentation and critique of the framework on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 in Umuahia before it was adopted and signed a day later by the Governor. It was an interesting engagement with participants drawn from several continents and different walks of life. I also followed the events at Banquet Hall where His Excellency signed the memorandum of understanding and announced the formal adoption of the framework. I picked very interesting lesson from the programmes and as always, I am glad to share what I learnt.

1. Steady electricity for everyone: Yes, this is quite self-explanatory. The formalisation of protocols and systems for the operation of mini-grids in the State would literally mean steady electricity for everyone, whether you live in rural or urban centres, whether your needs are residential or commercial, whatever the size of your bank account and perhaps, no matter the political party you support. Those of us on this side would also get the same amount of goodies as our friends on the opposing side. What the new mini-grid regulation means is that a framework to spur and direct the pattern of investments in mini-grid electricity in the State has been set in motion. A structured business ecosystem will ultimately attract investments, more investments means serious commercial and technical competition and ultimately, a better deal for customers. There is clearly a lot to be optimistic about in the energy enterprise space in the State and the recently-adopted mini-grip regulatory framework is just one of them but then, it may also be the most significant and most likely-to-be-achieved in the short to medium term.

2. Closing the experience gap between urban and rural centres: Why often many of us move to the urban centres from our village homes is to find the opportunities and privileges that come with more electricity supplies as is the case in the urban communities. Yes, power supply in Nigeria is generally below par but I am more likely to get high supply numbers if I live around Library Avenue Umuahia than if I stayed back in my village. To be clear, our need for electricity goes beyond the appetite for night time illumination — electricity is productivity. You are therefore most likely to be more productive in places where the power supply is regular than where it is not. If you live in Umuahia, your standard of life is likely to be higher than someone living in a rural community because one, you are likely to earn more, meaning that your consumption choices are likely more expansive. It is also more likely that you will have access to the finer things of life, drink cooler water and maybe spend less time sweating. But things will change rapidly with the coming of the mini-grids, everyone will have the right to gloat, good things would be more evenly spread and the man in my village can also afford to employ the machines and tools that boost productivity and thus, reach higher income levels and if you stretch it further, expand the size of their consumption baskets. The implication is that the rush to the urban centres will slow as more people begin to find interesting path to their dream realities right in the places where they were born.

3. Industrialisation, employment and more: Our industrial output levels are low because power has been a perennial constraint. With more investors coming into the energy space, using innovative means to generate and transit electricity to users in homes and factories, our output volume are bound to rise as new machines are installed and long abandoned machineries deployed to support the process of producing more goods and services. What would ultimately follow are increased demand for labour, shorter unemployment queues and then a rise in the bargaining power of workers as opportunities multiply. This reality is great for the economic and social experiences of our young people.

4. Optimising renewable energy sources: We are a community blessed with the natural resources that can be harnessed to generate energy. From sunlight to wind and other sources that already exist for the generation of zero to low carbon electricity and the ones that would be invented in the future. What the Abia State mini-grid framework would ultimately do is to open our eyes to the untapped resources that would support our push for energy-sufficiency here in the State.

5. An opportunity to invest in the electricity value chain for all of us: Yes, the message is that going forward, anybody, including community associations and town unions, you and I, cooperative societies and all of us can become an investor (investors) in the renewable energy business, using non-carbon sources to generate and transmit electricity to users in different parts of the State. The good news for us is that the Government has set up modalities for supporting everyone wishing to invest in mini-grid electricity in the State, from the State Ministry of Power and Public Utilities to the Board of the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority (ASERA), there are institutional structures that are willing to guide anyone making an inquiry, bringing their money to invest or needing a structure to guide their financial outlay. Do not miss this opportunity to be part of the electricity revolution happening in the State. People are already seeking to know how they can come in and support in the provision of stable electricity in their villages and communities. Please hurry to the aforementioned offices to learn what you need, the existing infrastructure and what you need to pay as registration and licensing fees and of course, how much returns can be made in an area over time. The direction is clear: invest or lose the right to accuse some external factors of being behind the malaise of poor electricity infrastructure and structure in the places that matter to you, where you live, do business or play. It is now up to us what we do with the opportunity that the new system, supported by Governor Alex Otti, OFR and his astute team at the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities, is offering us. Don’t sleep on it.

GOV OTTI RECEIVES THE PRESIDENT GENERAL OF THE CHARISMATIC BISHOPS CONFERENCE OF NIGERIA, ARCHBISHOP KAWAS.

The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, on Wednesday, received in audience, the President General of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, His Eminence, Archbishop Prof Leonard Bature Kawas who is on a 3-day Ecclesiastical visit to Abia State.

Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, the Governor in his speech, painted a vivid picture of Abia’s past, calling it “a period of stone age and the darkest of all darkness.” He emphasized that the current administration arrived at a crucial time when transformation was desperately needed. He also recognized the vital role that clerics and religious leaders played in rallying prayers, intercession, and moral support during the 2023 elections, highlighting how their connection with the community significantly contributed to the current government’s success.

“We know what Abians yearn for. The church stood with us, religious leaders came out boldly to stake their faith in this mandate, and today we are grateful. We urge you to continue to sustain your prayers and unwavering support for this government, as we remain committed to delivering the dividends of democracy to our people,” the Governor said.

The Governor described the Church, as a critical stakeholder in nation -building, and assured them that his administration will not relent in working tirelessly for the progress of the state, guided by the principles of justice, equity, and service to humanity. He appreciated their words of encouragement and commendation on the modest efforts of the current administration to reposition Abia State on the path of sustainable growth and development.

Speaking during the visit, Archbishop Kawas extolled the visionary leadership of Governor Alex Otti, describing him as a trailblazer who has redefined governance in Abia State. He noted that within a short period, the Otti administration has demonstrated uncommon courage and commitment in every sector.

 

We wish to commend His Excellency the Governor for the giant strides taken and conscious efforts made to transform all sectors of the state. The untiring efforts of your government in attracting investors and repositioning Abia as a model of good governance are highly remarkable. It is common knowledge beyond the borders of Abia that you are today widely reckoned as the best performing Governor in the country. We are sincerely proud to associate with such deliberate commitment and wish to assure His Excellency of our unflinching support towards consolidating this leadership beyond 2027,” Archbishop Kawas stated.

The Archbishop, reflecting on his previous visit to Abia two years back, pointed out the incredible changes the state has experienced under the current leadership.

“Slightly about two years ago, Abia State was in ruin; refuse dumps scattered everywhere, and the environment was in total decay. But today, I have visited Abia again and I have a soul full of joy. I am glad to declare that I have no regret for openly declaring our support for Dr. Otti during our mega rally at Obehie two years ago. Do not look back, Your Excellency, you are on the right path”, Archbishop Bawas declared.

He further emphasized that leadership is a divine trust bestowed by God, whether in the church or government. He warned that every leader is ultimately judged by history as either an asset or a liability, but expressed confidence that the Otti administration has already distinguished itself as an asset to the people of Abia State and Nigeria at large.

The Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria stands as a powerful Christian organization, boasting over 400 Bishops and senior Ministers of the Gospel among its ranks, along with hundreds of thousands of followers throughout the nation, including in Abia State.

The highlight of the visit was a heartfelt intercessory prayer session led by Archbishop Kawas and his team. They prayed for the Governor, the Deputy Governor, the members of the State Executive Council, and all those appointed in the administration, seeking God’s wisdom, strength, and divine protection as they guide the state’s affairs.

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, the Honourable Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Apostle K.C. Wiper, the Executive Secretary of the Abia State Pilgrims Board, Mrs. Chinweoke Mike-Iheadindu were among government officials present during the visit.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba, KSJI
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
Government House, Umuahia
3rd September, 2025.

WE ARE POISED TO GIVE ABIANS THE PREMIUM THEY DESERVE – GOV OTTI

The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has praised the church for its continuous prayers and support for his administration.

The Governor made this statement during a visit from the Aba Provincial Joint Council of Knights of the Anglican Communion at Government House, Umuahia. He was represented by his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu.

The Governor expressed gratitude to the church for recognizing his administration’s efforts in the state, and pointed out that good governance plays a crucial role in lightening the burdens faced by society.

“We are pleased to see that you acknowledge the progress taking place in Abia State through the renewed Abia vision. This administration is committed to ensuring our people receive the premium they deserve. That’s why we focus on creating job opportunities for our youth, reducing unrest, and building a supportive environment for businesses. The improvements in security, infrastructure, healthcare, and education are all part of a larger goal to restore the dignity and pride of the people of Abia”, Governor Otti noted.

He emphasized that state development is not just the job of the government; it requires everyone in the state to work together.

“As I have often said, we cannot rely solely on the government to drive the progress of our state. It takes a united effort from all of us: the church, religious bodies, businesses, the media, and every caring Abian. Your presence today highlights the essential role that churches and religious institutions play in shaping our moral values and aiding the social growth of our community. Abia is God’s Own State, and we are determined to make that a reality in governance, in service delivery, and in the everyday lives of our citizens,” the Governor stated.

In his remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Apostle K.C. Wiper, praised the long-standing relationship between the Anglican Church and the current administration. He highlighted the Church’s active role in supporting Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, before and during the general 2023 elections and encouraged them to keep the administration in their prayers.

In his address, the President of Presidents, Aba Provincial Joint Council of Knights, Sir Dr. Collins Ugo Obi, said the purpose of the visit was to officially meet with Governor Otti’s administration and to show their brotherly support.

He commended the Governor for the significant progress his government has made in such a short time, restoring the dignity of governance, improving infrastructure, and rekindling hope for the people of Abia.

“Your Excellency, we are proud of the courage, transparency, and renewed hope in our people and the faith in leadership you have inspired. We have watched with admiration as the spirit of the late Chief Sam Onunaka Mbakwe seems to be reflected in your leadership. The legacy of purposeful governance is alive again in Abia under your leadership,” Sir Obi said.

The Aba Provincial Joint Council of Knights of the Anglican Communion prayed that God would continue to grant the Governor, his Deputy, and all government appointees wisdom, strength, and good health so that the work of renewal and transformation can continue to grow for the glory of God and the benefit of future generations.

The Honourable Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Apostle K.C. Wiper, the Executive Secretary of the Abia State Pilgrims Board, Mrs. Chinweoke Mike-Iheadindu, and other top government officials were present during the visit.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba, KSJI
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
Government House, Umuahia
3rd September, 2025.

Abia State Inaugurates 23-Member Committee for Second International Trade Fair

The Abia State Government has officially inaugurated a 23-member planning committee for the second edition of the Abia International Trade Fair, with a strong mandate to deliver an event that surpasses the inaugural edition in scope, quality, and impact.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Hall, Government House, Umuahia, was presided over by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, who also serves as Chairman of the Trade Fair Committee.

While addressing the newly inaugurated members, Engr. Emetu emphasized the importance of drawing lessons from the experiences and challenges of the previous edition.

He urged the committee to bring innovation, dedication, and excellence to the planning and execution of this year’s event.

He congratulated the members and encouraged them to take the assignment seriously, highlighting the significance of the trade fair to Abia’s economy and business community.

“We are expecting increased participation from industrialists, investors, and entrepreneurs who will showcase their products and services. We must be open to new ideas and ensure our preparations reflect the true spirit of Abia,” Emetu stated.

He also announced that all financial transactions related to the trade fair will now be centralized under the Ministry of Trade and Commerce to promote transparency and accountability.

The ministry will manage the event’s accounts, with the Commissioner for Trade and Commerce serving as Secretary of the Committee. The Vice Presidents of the Aba and Umuahia Chambers of Commerce will serve as Co-Vice Chairmen.

The Deputy Governor called for enhanced collaboration with traditional media and social media influencers to ensure widespread publicity.

He stressed the importance of grassroots mobilization through local government Mayor’s and community leaders.

“The orientation agency has its work cut out. We must work closely with radio stations and also harness the power of social media to drive awareness,” he added.

Engr. Emetu further advised the committee to immediately fix and announce a date for the fair, so it can be officially included in the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA)’s event calendar. This, he said, would facilitate proper scheduling, sponsorship drives, and formal engagement with corporate participants.

In their remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade, Commerce, and Industry, Mr. Nwaka Inem, and his Investment Promotion counterpart, Chief Greene Amankwe, expressed optimism that the 2025 edition of the trade fair would be more impactful than the last.

They emphasized that while trade fairs should be government-driven, their success depends on close collaboration with the Chambers of Commerce, which possess a rich database of businesses operating within the state.

 

Also speaking, the President of the Aba Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chief Geoffrey Uzoagbara, expressed his gratitude to the state government for the opportunity to participate in the planning process. He described the initiative as laudable, noting that organizing trade fairs traditionally falls within the responsibilities of the Chamber of Commerce.

The second Abia International Trade Fair is expected to attract both local and international stakeholders across various sectors and further position the state as a hub for commerce, investment, and innovation in Nigeria.

OBICARE CHARITY FOUNDATION CELEBRATES GOOD GOVERNANCE WITH PALLIATIVES DISTRIBUTION IN ABIA NORTH

The Obicare Charity Foundation is once again shining a light on good governance by distributing palliatives in Abia North, continuing its mission to support those in need.

In a heartfelt effort to uplift the less privileged, the foundation brought joy to over 400 widows and vulnerable persons in the Abia North Senatorial District. This humanitarian outreach, a staple of the foundation’s work, took place Saturday 30th August at the home of Elder Engr. Obinna Odum, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, located in Ugwu Abba, Asaga, within the Ohafia Local Government Area.

The event drew a large crowd, with beneficiaries from Arochukwu, Ohafia, Bende, and Isiukwuato Local Government Areas receiving a variety of essential items. Umunneochi LGA will be captured in the next phase of the program in the coming months. The beneficiaries were given 5kg bags of rice, cartons of noodles, vegetable oil, condiments, wrappers, and even cash gifts. The atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude as recipients expressed their heartfelt thanks to the foundation for its unwavering dedication to their well-being.

During the event, Elder Engr. Obinna Odum highlighted that this initiative is not just about showing compassion to widows and vulnerable individuals; it’s also a celebration of the good governance being fostered in Abia State under Governor Alex Chioma Otti. He pointed out that the Governor’s focus on people-oriented policies and transparent leadership has reignited hope among the citizens, making it easier for organizations like Obicare to play a vital role in improving lives at the grassroots level.

 

Elder Odum reiterated the foundation’s commitment to making this outreach a regular program, encouraging beneficiaries to stay hopeful and prayerful. He assured them that the Obicare Charity Foundation will continue to be a steadfast support for those in need across Abia North and beyond.

 

The event also saw the presence of community leaders, youth groups, women’s organizations, and other stakeholders, all of whom praised the Obicare Charity Foundation for its consistent efforts in promoting humanitarian causes.

You could see the joy shining on the faces of those benefiting from the outreach, which truly highlighted Obicare’s mission to spread love, hope, and empowerment. It also reinforced the idea that when good governance is celebrated and supported, it can lead to a positive impact in our communities.

Abia Records Historic Strides in Healthcare and Economic Renewal

Abia State is charting a new path of development, renewal, and transformation under the visionary leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR. Unfolding developments in health, industry, and the environment point to an ambitious and forward-thinking agenda that continues to yield tangible dividends to citizens.

This was made known by the State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu in Umuahia the state capital. He highlighted the progress made so far in revitalizing various sectors of the economy.

*Healthcare Transformation on Track*

Abia Social Health Insurance Scheme has crossed a landmark in its existence, having surpassed its 2025 enrolment target of 100,000 beneficiaries. The scheme has enrolled over 103,000 citizens as of August 17, with the enrolment of the informal sector set to start this week—extending quality healthcare to even more families.

The state’s flagship Project Ekwueme is revolutionizing the provision of primary healthcare. 121 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) have been completed so far. 17 of them are already fully operational, 33 are being equipped in phases, with the remaining to be completed in phases. The current phase is scheduled to be concluded on October 31, 2025. This has already restored public confidence in Abia’s health system, with ABSUTH bed occupancy rising from 50% in August 2024 to 100% as of March 2025.

In a bid to institutionalize reforms, the Ministry of Health created two new departments—the Abia Drug and Medical Commodities Management Agency and the Department of Nutrition—in tandem with federal moves to harmonize health systems. The State Executive Council also endorsed the Abia State Health, Safety and Environment Policy, a proactive step to safeguard the well-being of civil servants.

*Economic Revitalisation Through Industrial Revival*

Economically, Abia is resuscitating its dead industries. The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has finally approved the sale of the moribund Star Paper Mill to the state government. Arrangements are underway to resuscitate the facility, in addition to similar efforts to bring Afro Beverages, Aba Textile Mills, International Equitable Association, and Ken Biscuits back to life. These projects will create thousands of jobs and expand the revenue base of the state.

*Environmental Renewal: Keeping Abia Clean*

The Ministry of Environment has commenced a house-to-house sanitary inspection in all the 17 LGAs under the Keeping Abia State Clean Initiative. Defaulters would be prosecuted based on state environmental laws, rendering the environment cleaner and healthier for the people.

Abia State’s steady progress is a testimony to the resilience of its people and the transformational vision of Governor Alex Chioma Otti’s administration. With every new milestone, the state draws closer to a future marked by prosperity, innovation, and sustainable development.