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SPORTS

UNITED STATES GIVES NIGERIA, OTHERS 60 DAYS TO MEET TRAVEL BAN POLICY OR FACE BLACKLIST

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The Trump administration is considering an expansion of its travel ban policy that could affect citizens from 36 additional countries, including 25 in Africa.

An internal memo reveals that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed a proposal to impose visa restrictions or travel bans on these nations. Key allies like Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, and Djibouti could be impacted and have 60 days to meet new U.S. Department of State requirements or face blacklisting.

The proposed restrictions cite reasons such as unreliable identity documentation, high visa overstay rates, corruption, fraud, and concerns over citizenship-by-investment schemes, as well as allegations of antisemitic or anti-American activities.

If enacted, the proposed measure would be one of the most aggressive immigration actions in Trump’s second term, similar to the controversial Muslim ban from his first term.

Critics argue that it is discriminatory, and Stephen Yale-Loehr, a Cornell Law School professor, claimed that even if legal, it is poor policy that could separate families, affecting both foreigners and U.S. citizens.

The memo sets a deadline of June 18 at 8:00 a.m. for countries to submit plans to meet new U.S. security benchmarks. To avoid the travel ban, countries may need to accept deportees or enter agreements to process asylum seekers outside U.S. borders.

SPORTS

“DRAW INSPIRATION FROM THE WORTHY ANTECEDENTS OF YOUR PREDECESSORS”, GOV OTTI URGES NYSC CORPS MEMBERS

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The Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has urged the National Youth Service Corps members to draw inspiration from the worthy antecedents of their predecessors, who have made noteworthy contributions to the development of their host communities.

Governor Otti stated this during the opening/swearing-in ceremony of the 2025 Batch “A” Stream II Orientation Course of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), held at the permanent orientation camp, Umunna, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State.

Speaking through his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu,FNSE, Governor Otti emphasized the importance of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in fostering national unity and pledged the government’s support in enhancing the program.

“As the leader of Abia State, I recognize the critical role the NYSC plays in our national integration and development efforts. Our administration is committed to strengthening the scheme and enhancing it’s capacity to nurture patriotic values in our young graduates.

He urged the corps members to engage actively in their orientation, highlighting their role in the state’s transformation efforts through the New Abia Project Blueprint, which focuses on infrastructure, governance, and economic development.

“We consider you critical partners in our national transformation efforts, driven by our social compact contract with the people of Abia State as encapsulated in the New Abia Project Blueprint. Our blueprint focuses on institutional and structural reforms, sustained economic growth and development.

He reiterated the administration’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for innovation and social mobility, with assurance of support from the administration and collaboration with NYSC management for a productive experience.

Delivering his speech, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development and Chairman, NYSC State Governing Board, Abia State, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, stated that this administration under the leadership of Dr. Alex Otti, has continued to fulfill its statutory obligations and maintained a supportive attitude towards the Abia State NYSC Secretariat.

He congratulated the corps members for successfully completing their various courses of study, thereby fulfilling the necessary requirement for participation in the scheme and urged them to emulate the patriotic service of their predecessors, among whom two were honoured by the Governor for the impact they made in their host communities.

Earlier in her address, the Abia State NYSC Coordinator, Barr. (Mrs.) Gladys Adams, expressed delight in the ability of the corps members to adjust to the regimented camp life as well as their zeal to learn.

She stated that In recent years, the NYSC has adapted its orientation course content to reflect the current security and economic challenges in the country, particularly the issues of national security and a lack of job opportunities for graduates. This change she said, has led to the inclusion of security lectures and skills acquisition and entrepreneurship training in the program. She therefore encouraged the corps members to actively participate in these lectures.

She thanked Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for the ongoing rehabilitation of the orientation camp and for providing the needed enabling environment for corps members to thrive in the state while appealing for the retrofitting of the NYSC State Secretariat in Umuahia.

The Chief Judge of Abia State, His Lordship, Hon. Justice Lilian Abai, represented by Hon. Justice C.E. Anyim administered oath of allegiance to the corps members.

The event was attended by the Chairman/Mayor of Bende Local Government Area, Chief Uwabunkonye Bassey, representatives of members of the state security council and other para-military agencies, and traditional rulers.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba, KSJI
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
June 13, 2025.

SPORTS

PRESIDENT TINUBU’S ECONOMIC POLICY, A STEP TO BETTER NIGERIAN ECONOMY – GOV. OTTI

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Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti,OFR, expressed his continued support for President Bola Tinubu, particularly regarding the challenging economic decisions aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s economy. He praised the removal of the fuel subsidy and described it as a necessary and overdue step.

Governor Otti made these statements during a visit from former Abia State Governor Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu and Sen. Chris Adighije, who came to encourage him for his efforts in the state. He emphasized the deep friendship he shares with President Tinubu, stating that their alignment on many issues, particularly economic matters, has been longstanding. The Governor highlighted that correcting years of irresponsible behavior in governance would be difficult but necessary, asserting that if faith is maintained, the country will eventually succeed.

Governor Otti also underscored the unpredictability of the future, suggesting that focusing on the present is crucial. He shared insights on his administration’s focus on infrastructure development, particularly in Aba, attributing part of its success to the support of local residents, including a significant donation of N200 Million from one man due to the improved roads. He explained that by enhancing key areas that generate revenue, the funds can be redirected to support other regions. Otti noted the vibrant business activity in Aba, stating that the city now operates at all hours, promoting economic engagement. He emphasized his desire to keep the economy active later into the evening by planning to illuminate the route from Umuahia to Ohafia. Additionally,

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who was unable to attend Otti’s second anniversary celebration due to a prior commitment, expressed his friendship with the Governor and praised the improved road conditions. The journey from Igbere to Umuahia has improved significantly, with travel time reduced from three hours to under one hour due to road repairs initiated by Governor Otti. Senator Orji Kalu praised the governor for his contributions to the state and expressed gratitude for the road rehabilitation efforts, stating that conditions have greatly improved. He emphasized the importance of the people’s choice in leadership, asserting that Abians will choose their best leaders based on their experiences and needs.

SPORTS

TWO YEARS ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: ABIA DEPUTY GOVERNOR EXTENDS HEARTFELT CONGRATULATIONS TO GOVERNOR ALEX CHIOMA OTTI, OFR.

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The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, extends heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Alex Chioma Otti,OFR, the Executive Governor of Abia State on the occasion of his second anniversary in office.

Emetu expresses joy and gratitude as they celebrate the significant milestone in their journey to improve the state. He highlights Otti’s visionary leadership and dedication to good governance, which have revitalized infrastructure, healthcare, and education, bringing renewed hope to the people of Abia.

In a letter personally signed by the Deputy Governor, he feels honored to serve in this transformative administration, which has embraced transparency and inclusiveness. He commends Governor Otti for his achievements and reiterates his commitment to their shared vision for a prosperous Abia, wishing continued success and divine guidance for the Governor.

He assures all Abians of more people oriented programmes and projects from the intentional government of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR.

 

POLITICS

GOV. OTTI  HOLDS JOINT EXCO SESSION, SIGNS 18 BILLS INTO LAW IN CELEBRATION OF SECOND YEAR ANNIVERSARY

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As part of his second anniversary celebrations, Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti conducted a joint session with the State Executive Council and the House of Assembly, where he signed 18 Executive Bills into law. This brings the total to 30 bills signed since 2023.

Governor Otti emphasized that these new laws support his vision for performance-based governance, accountability, and community development, as outlined in his manifesto and the 2023 transition committee report. He commended the House of Assembly for its leadership and legislative support and expressed confidence that the legislative framework established will sustain development gains made during his administration.

Presenting the bills, the Speaker, Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa described the bills as impactful, noting that they include amendments to existing laws that will benefit the community.

The Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie Meregini, the Majority Leader, Hon. Uchenna Kalu Okoro, and the Member representing Ukwa West State Constituency, Hon. Godwin Adielu while expressing positive sentiments regarding Governor Otti’s leadership in Abia State, emphasized the Governor’s pragmatic and visionary governance and assured ongoing support from the Abia State House of Assembly for good governance.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, announced that 30 Executive bills had been passed under Governor Otti, highlighting a focus on transparency and policy-driven legislation. Key laws mentioned include the Abia State Senior Citizens Law 2025 and others pertaining to agency repeals and amendments.

The bill signing ceremony was attended by members of the Executive Council and the House of Assembly.

SPORTS

GOV. OTTI TO COMMISSION MULTIPLE PROJECTS IN THE NEXT 30 DAYS

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Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, announced that multiple projects will be commissioned in the state within the next 30 days.

Speaking at his 2nd Year Anniversary Thanksgiving Service, he outlined the projects, which include Primary Healthcare Centres, Smart Schools, retrofitted school buildings, and roads. Governor Otti emphasized his commitment to improving Umuahia’s appearance as a state capital.

He mentioned that half of the 200 Primary Healthcare Centres are ready for commissioning, along with two of the 20 Smart Schools. Additionally, he highlighted the progress of 221 schools undergoing rebuilding and retrofitting, and the completion of several roads.

The Governor also stressed gratitude to God for the achievements over the past two years. He thanked the guest speaker, Rev. Sam Oye, for his support and prayers.

The Lead Pastor of The Transforming Church, Rev. Sam Oye, expressed gratitude for support since 2015 during a sermon, highlighting the potential economic growth for Abia State under Governor Otti.

He noted God’s revelation in 2022 about the prosperity expected from Otti’s leadership and praised achievements like improvements in road infrastructure, education, and health in just two years. Rev. Oye urged collaboration for future developments and envisioned Abia as a hub for leather, garments, technology, and agriculture.

Pastor Amara Uwaeziozi of Master’s Vessel Church also commended Otti’s governance, urging pastors to advocate for sustained good governance in Abia.

The two-year anniversary thanksgiving service featured prayers for the Governor, performances by local gospel artists, and a call for continued support for the government.

DEVELOPMENT

ABIA TO LAUNCH PUBLIC ELECTRIC BUSES AS ABA COMMUNITY CELEBRATE GOVERNOR OTTI

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Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced the procurement of 20 electric buses set to be introduced within two months.

Speaking at a thanksgiving event organized by the Aba community, he highlighted the completion of Port Harcourt Road, which had been neglected for over 30 years.

Governor Otti stated that new bus terminals are under construction to support the upcoming transportation system. He emphasized the superiority of the electric buses compared to traditional vehicles, noting that they would not rely on petrol or diesel.

In response to criticisms from the previous administration regarding expenditures, Otti revealed that the former government had allocated more money for Port Harcourt Road without achieving completion. He provided a comparison of costs between the two administrations, illustrating that his governments spending was more effective.

Governor Otti highlighted the differences in spending on road projects, noting that while USD29 million was spent in 2017 without results, USD22 million spent in 2025 resulted in a completed road. He thanked the people of Aba for their ongoing support since his 2015 election campaign and rewarded a Keke driver with 1.4 million Naira who returned 2.4 million Naira left by a passenger, praising the honesty of Abians.

Officials and community leaders praised Otti’s achievements in Aba, particularly the improvements on Port Harcourt Road, and expressed their confidence in his leadership and potential re-election.

The event was characterized as a celebration of progress and support for the Governors initiatives in road development and community enhancement, with music displays featured in the carnival. The carnival featured several artists from Aba and was attended by many dignitaries as reported by Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State, dated May 21, 2025.

SPORTS

GOV. OTTI REAFFIRMS READINESS TO PARTNER WITH INVESTORS TO BUILD ABIA STADIUM CITY TO BOOST STATE ECONOMY.

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The Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti has expressed the readiness of his administration to partner with serious private investors to build the proposed Abia Stadium City to create a better future and boost the economy of Abia State.

Governor Otti was speaking when he received in audience, a team of development partners led by the Managing Director, Irish Development Group (IDG) Mr. Nigel Neely, who came to present a master plan of the proposed Abia Stadium City in his office.

The Governor said that his administration has been on the stadium project and is looking for those who not only have the capacity to deliver but willing to invest in Abia. He said that, he believes that with private sector involvement, such a gigantic project could be achieved while its sustainability would be guaranteed, even beyond his tenure in office.

“We’ve been on this stadium project, and we’ve pushed very hard because we know what we want to achieve. Listening to you, you clearly know what to do.

“So, just looking at these highlights (the presentation), I know that the devil is in the details. It looks like something that can work. We have it out already, and I’m happy you have even gone ahead to inspect the site.

“So now, if it’s largely private sector-held, then even when I’m not here tomorrow, they will run well. because it also has to be sustainable.

The Governor, who stressed that sustainability is key, said that the government could have 10% or 20% maximum investment and allow the rest to be owned by private investors.

He said that what is needed is for both the government and the development partner’s team to sit and work out the details of the project.

“I think we’re now going to sit down and drill down the real issues around the details. Like , they said, the devil may be in the details.

“Where do we find the money? How much is it going to cost? In what tranches are they going to come? And, who is going to own it? As a government, we want to maintain minimum share holding, Gov. Otti stated.

Governor Otti appreciated the preliminary studies and spoke of the merits of the site.

“As you were making your presentation, I said, yes, that is exactly my impression about the place. We had a lot of options but we chose that place. One, it’s not inside, its not too far. And then, the airport that we have just started, is also not too far.

“And those are some of the attractions. You want to get to a stadium, or a stadium village, because,  there’s a stadium. So you have good accommodation, you can do your shopping, you can go on holiday.

“Originally, we had a games village exactly where the airport is sitting now. And we took a decision that the airport and the games village should not be at the same place.

“And even for the people, it would make more sense to just get to the stadium and everything you want to do is around there. So, that’s what I’ve deducted from this presentation, which I think works, Gov. Otti noted.

The Governor further assured that power would not be a problem for the project as his administration is concluding plans to buy the Umuahia ringed-fence of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, which would provide enough power to Umuahia and the entire Abia North zone.

Speaking while making a presentation of the master plan for the proposed Abia Stadium City, the development partner and Managing Director, Irish Development Group (IDG), Mr. Nigel Neely said that the proposed Abia Stadium City, to be located on a 96-hectare expanse of land in Umuahia, represents a bold and forward-looking initiative designed to reposition Abia State as a premier destination for sports, tourism, business, and recreation.

He said that the project is anchored on the creation of a world-class, multi – functional sports and entertainment complex that would serve the region and attract global attention

According to him, the structure for the proposed Abia Stadium City includes, Stadium and Sports zone, Games Village and High-Performance Training Centre, Residential District (Smart Housing); Offering modern, tech-integrated living spaces for residents and visitors, Hospitality and Tourism zone with hotels, resorts among others.

Mr. Neely expressed delight to be part of what he described as the transformative vision of Governor Alex Otti.

The Commissioners for Youth and Sports, Sir. Nwaobilor Nwadinma Ananaba and Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Uwaoma Ukandu were among government officials at the presentation.

Ctz. UKOHA NJOKU UKOHA
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State, Government House, Umuahia.
20 – 05 – 2025.

DEVELOPMENT

ABSG VOWS TO BUILD 24 HOURS HEALTHCARE ECOSYSTEM TO THE UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES IN OFF-GRID LOCATIONS

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The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has inaugurated the Abia State Steering committee for the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP), held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Umuahia

Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, Otti noted that apart from reviving the healthcare delivery value chains in the State, his administration is poised to build a system that offers best-in-class medical services to everyone who walks through the doors of any of the primary, secondary or tertiary health facilities in the State. This he said will give priority attention to the underserved communities in off-grid locations.

Gov Otti described the Nigeria Solar for Health Project as not just strategic to Abia State development agenda, but aligns perfectly with her integrated programme of excellence and effective service delivery in the health sector, and thanked the partners from the European Union (EU) for choosing Abia as one of the five states to participate in the project.

“This is an initiative that would not just transform the health system, it would simply bring life to communities, improving not just the activities around the health facilities and the longevity of drugs and medical consumables, it will support economic activities in surrounding locations and ultimately improve the living conditions of the populace”.

Governor Otti encouraged the European Union and other development partners to seek partnership opportunities in education, infrastructure, and agriculture in the state. He assured that he would offer all necessary support to protect investments aimed at creating a comprehensive partnership framework.

In his speech, Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr Ikechukwu Monday, announced that the European Union funded 70% of the project, with the Abia State government contributing 30% under Gov. Alex Otti’s administration. He thanked the EU for choosing Abia as one of five implementing states and praised Gov. Otti for securing the counterpart funding. He stated that the project aims to provide continuous solar energy supply to healthcare facilities throughout the state.

In his remarks, The Commissioner for health, Prof. Uche Enoch, highlighted that inconsistent power supply in the country has increased morbidity and mortality rates. He emphasized the connection between power and health, noting that reliable electricity has enabled the refrigeration of essential drugs, vaccines, and life-supporting equipment.

Mr. Tinyan Ogiehor, a senior stakeholder engagement manager for NHISP, presented an overview of the project, while Mrs. Inga Stephanowicz, Head of Section for Green Economy at EU Nigeria, commended Governor Otti for his administrative acumen towards improved healthcare delivery in the State.

Highlight of the occasion was the official inauguration of the Abia State Steering Committee of Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NHISP).

The Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojiekere, Honourable Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Blessing Ngozi Felix, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Deputy Governor, Bar. Chijioke Nwankwo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy, Engr. Kachy Etolue, and other top government officials witnessed the event.

 

COMMENTARY

ABSSAA: Redefining Outdoor Advertising in Abia by Ebere Uzoukwa, Ph.D.

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The Abia State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ABSSAA) has been making significant strides in the outdoor advertising sector under the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR. The Agency has embarked on a mission to transform the state’s outdoor advertising landscape.

According to the MD/CEO, Hon. Mrs. Victoria Onwubiko, ABSSAA was significantly underperforming, with low revenue, fragile public trust, and weak enforcement mechanisms. But, today, the Agency has within the period under review implemented bold reforms focused on transparency, accountability, and innovation, aligning the Agency’s strategy with Governor Otti’s transformational agenda.

One of the key achievements of ABSSAA is the significant growth in revenue, above 300% between 2023 and 2024. This growth is attributed to improved enforcement and stakeholder engagement as the Agency prioritized staff welfare, providing modern tools and improving benefits for greater efficiency. Additionally, ABSSAA cleared and realigned billboards obstructing rights of way or posing public risks, enhancing the visual appeal of urban environments. The Agency has also piloted standardized pylon signage for shopping plazas to reduce visual clutter and improve navigability.

During a recent Stakeholders Engagement organized by ABSSAA, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D., re-echoed the importance of cooperation between ABSSAA and outdoor practitioners in achieving the government’s vision. He noted that the government has embarked on massive road construction in Aba and other parts of the state to ensure ease of doing business and that ABSSAA’s efforts would complement these initiatives. He commended the MD/CEO for redefining the operations of ABSSAA to an acceptable standard and encouraged all stakeholders to identify with the proper channel of doing advertising in the state.

Suffice it to say that ABSSAA’s efforts to harness the potential of outdoor advertising in Aba, a major business hub, are noteworthy. The Agency has introduced standardized signage and strengthened enforcement against illegal structures, working closely with business owners to educate them on compliant and effective outdoor branding. The goal is to transform Aba into a model for safe, clean, and revenue-yielding advertisement infrastructure.

The Agency’s Stakeholder Engagement approach is built on transparency, collaboration, and mutual respect. ABSSAA organized stakeholder meetings to listen to concerns and introduced client-focused reforms that simplified processes and eliminated ambiguity. The Agency has enforced compliance fairly and ensured that non-compliant or unapproved structures, especially those occupying premium space without remittance, were removed. These efforts have led to increased trust, improved collections, and a dramatic revenue increase from ₦24 million in 2023 to ₦147 million in 2024.

Worthy of mention is how Governor Otti’s economic and infrastructural vision has provided the catalyst for ABSSAA’s growth. With improved roads, better city planning, and increased investor confidence, the value of outdoor advertising has soared. The administration’s focus on accountability and service delivery has empowered agencies like ABSSAA to perform optimally. The Agency has been able to enforce standards and drive innovation because it is backed by a government that believes in system reform and sustainable urban development.

In a space of about two years, Governor Otti’s leadership has been transformational. He has restored fiscal discipline, invested in infrastructure, promoted transparency, and created an enabling environment for businesses and investments to thrive. From road reconstruction and salary clearance to public sector reforms and security enhancement, Governor Otti’s administration has repositioned Abia as a model state in Nigeria. For agencies like ABSSAA, his support has translated into clearer mandates, stronger backing, and greater public trust. The New Abia is no longer a slogan—it is now a lived experience.

Today, ABSSAA’s achievements serve as a glowing testament to the impact of effective governance and strategic leadership. As the Agency continues to grow and contribute to the state’s economic development, it is equally poised to further harness the potential of outdoor advertising in Abia. With its focus on transparency, accountability, and innovation, ABSSAA is redefining outdoor advertising in Abia, and its efforts are yielding positive results.

Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the SSA to the Governor of Abia State on Public Affairs.