The Methodist Archbishop of Umuahia, The Most Rev. Chibuzo Opoko, has urged the Abia State Governor, Alex , to remain steadfast and focus, saying history will always honour leaders who place the welfare of their people above everything else. He also counseled the governor not to allow any negative criticism to dissuade him from his focus.

Opoko said this at the grand reception organised by the people of Ikwuano, Umuahia North, Umuahia South, local councils in honour of the governor.

He noted that Otti has restored the hope and dignity of the people of Abia State both at home and abroad, stressing that Abians are happy with his leadership have gathered to honourhim for redefining governance in the state within a short period of time.

He disclosed thatOtti’s administration has demonstrated that leadership anchored on vision, integrity and service could transform society and commended the governor for the massive work at the Amachara Medical Centre formerly (Methodist Hospital, Amachara); the Abia State Specialist hospital with state-of-the-art equipment; and the upgrade of Primary Health Centres to international standard; as well as his impact on the education sector.

The Archbishop called for another four-year term to be given to him, adding that
Abians want him to continue to deliver the dividends of democracy.

The cleric who also chaired the occasion said: “Your decision and implementation of free education to all Abia children from primary to secondary schools is a landmark achievement in the history of the state. Hiring over 5,000 teachers, and additional 4,000 teachers is not only profound, but also epoch-making. The smart schools you are building in Ubakala and School road in Umuahia, among others, are, indeed, a great stride.”

Opoko acknowledged that a good number of roads have become motorable, as a result of the governor’s impactful leadership. He described Aba State under the leadership of Dr. Otti as completely wearing a new look, like a bride on her wedding morning.

“Our institutions are gaining strength. Omenuko Bridge is no longer a place where motorists whisper prayers in fear and trepidation. The Secretariat of the State Government’s office complex now stands with dignity. Michael Okpara square and the AguiyiIronsi Boulevard stretches are statements of purposeful administration.

“The International Conference Centre Umuahia, the old and dilapidated state secretariat at Ogurube Layout and the Michael Okpara Auditorium have all been uplifted to wear a new look inside and outside. From the Library Avenue or Bank Road to Okpara Square to Federal Medical Centre is a spectacle to behold. You have also contributed massively in the road network facelift within the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia not minding that it is a federal institution. Truly, Abia State is no longer whispering progress; it is announcing it,” he said.

The road construction with drainage on the Umuopara Ring Road connecting

Opoko recalled how erosion affected some communities including Elugwu Nkata, Afarata, Umuchime Ossah and Emede Ibeku and the governor’s quick intervention has saved the people living in those areas. They also celebrated the world class Umuahia Central Bus Terminal and the governor’s plan to have the ultra modern railway station.

Aside these remarkable strides of Governor Otti, the chairman of the occasion, however, said his people in the zone still implored the governor to do something regarding the International Stadium Complex project, they described as a landmark that would promote sports development, stimulate economic activities and position the state on the global map in sporting events.