Celebrating Global Excellence in Our Youth.
I am immensely proud to see the official tweet from former U.S. President @BarackObama , celebrating the incredible brilliance of our own Njideka @AkunyiliCrosby . Her exceptional talent has brought our shared history to the global stage through the unveiling of the first joint portrait of President Obama and former First Lady @MichelleObama .
This monumental achievement is a powerful reminder to Nigerian youths of what is possible when talent is met with hard work and discipline. Njideka, who is also the daughter of our late Dr Chike and Prof. Dora Akunyili, embodies the very best of the excellent Nigerian spirit.
As the great philosopher Aristotle rightly noted, excellence is not an accident; it is a habit, the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution. Njideka's global success proves that true greatness comes from this consistent, daily dedication to one's craft.
I urge our young people to look up to
individuals like her as true role models. Success is not found in shortcuts, but in the relentless pursuit of excellence, honouring one's roots, and using your gifts to make a global impact. If we remain committed to merit and hard work, the new Nigeria we desire will be built by such exemplary minds.
With focused and hard-working youths, a new Nigeria is POssible. -PO
Sustainable Success Is Built on Competence, Integrity, Discipline and hardworking.
On Saturday, I had the privilege of interacting with young entrepreneurs, professionals, business leaders, and members of the emerging generation at the This Generation Conference hosted by Summit Bible Church in Abuja.
Our discussion focused on what it takes to thrive in the marketplace despite prevailing economic challenges. I shared insights from my years in business and public service, emphasizing that sustainable success is built on integrity, competence, discipline, and a commitment to creating value for society.
I reminded participants that no nation develops by consumption alone. Nations progress when their citizens are productive, innovative, and committed to excellence. Our young people must resist the temptation of shortcuts and instead embrace education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership.
The future of Nigeria depends largely on the quality of leadership and enterprise this generation is willing to build. We must move from a culture of sharing poverty to one of creating prosperity through production, innovation, and responsible governance.
I left encouraged by the energy, intelligence, and determination of the young people I met. Their questions, ideas, and aspirations reaffirmed my belief that Nigeria’s greatest resource remains her people.
Together, through hard work, integrity, and purposeful leadership, we can build the New Nigeria that is POssible. -PO
At the Convention Centre of the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, I joined His Excellency, the Vice President Alhaji Kashim Shettima GCON, my brother Governors, distinguished guests, and investors from across Nigeria and around the world for the opening ceremony of Invest Lagos 3.0.
It was an honour to stand alongside other distinguished leaders and share the unfolding story of Abia State, a story of resilience, transformation, and opportunity. I began by expressing my gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whose vision and selflessness created this platform for states to showcase their strengths. Lagos is a megacity, but Nigeria needs more thriving cities to absorb growth.
I shared how Aba, following two decades of effort, now enjoys 24-hour electricity through Geometric Power. This achievement is the foundation for industry, manufacturing, and investor confidence. From Aba, we will be transmitting reliable power to Umuahia and other parts of the state, because we understand that energy is the lifeblood of economic growth.
In three years, we have completed over 400 roads, introduced electric buses, and built infrastructure that makes movement easier and greener. Healthcare has also been central: Abia is ranked Nigeria’s most health-emergency prepared state (SBM 2025 Report), with hundreds of centres refurbished, over 800 professionals recruited, and 15% of our budget dedicated to the sector. Our most ambitious vision is the Abia Medical City, already prepared with 200 hectares of land and access roads, now awaiting investors to help us build a world-class healthcare destination.
I also highlighted the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP) in Owaza, Ukwa West LGA, where we have resources in oil and gas, and are laying the foundation for industries that will power the future.
In my remarks, I emphasized that Abia is not competing with Lagos but complementing it. Nigeria’s growth requires multiple thriving cities, and Abia is ready to deliver.
To our investors, like Lagos, Abia State is open, prepared, and positioned for growth. Together, we will shape a Nigeria where businesses prosper, healthcare flourishes, and innovation leads the way.
Today, I visited the Government House complex in Umuahia to inspect the ongoing construction of a new Governor’s Office and Official Residence.
At the site, I met with engineers from Craneburg Construction Company, the firm handling the project, and together we reviewed the progress to ensure everything is on track with approved designs and standards.
I am pleased with the quality and pace of construction so far and have urged the contractors to sustain the momentum. The project, expected to be completed before the end of the year, is part of our broader effort to rebuild and modernize the Abia State Government House after years of neglect.
Already, we have delivered several key upgrades, including the renovated Deputy Governor’s Office, a brand-new Office for the Secretary to the State Government, and the remodeled Michael Okpara Auditorium, Protocol Building, Political Block Unit and Banquet Hall. Work is also ongoing on a modern Government House Clinic, a new Gate, and other supporting infrastructure.
Our goal is clear: to transform the seat of government into a functional, befitting, and modern administrative hub for the people of Abia State.
Building a Healthier Nigeria Through Stronger Healthcare Systems
As part of our desire and commitment to building a healthier Nigeria, I met with some healthcare professionals and experts in the United States on Friday, June 5, 2026. The meeting was essentially to deepen my understanding of how successful health insurance systems deliver improved healthcare, especially in the areas of primary and emergency care.
One of our key health objectives remains unchanged: to expand health insurance coverage, strengthen primary healthcare across our electoral wards, train more healthcare workers, and make quality healthcare accessible and affordable for all Nigerians.
A New Nigeria must be a healthier Nigeria.
A New Nigeria is possible. -PO
DIGNITY, PUBLIC WELFARE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
Being the Text of a State Broadcast by Governor Alex C. Otti, OFR, to Mark the 3rd Anniversary of His Administration
1. Umunnem ndi Abia, friends of our dear State, men and women of goodwill, I bring you joyful greeting as we mark yet another epoch in the continuing evolution of our land as a development frontline. Permit me to begin on a note of profound gratitude to the Almighty God to whom this State and its people are wholly dedicated. This day presents us a special opportunity to reflect on how far we have come, appreciate ourselves for the modest strides, and make a conscious decision to face the future with courage. Indeed, we have come a long way but the road ahead is still far, our journey is only just beginning. For all its shortcomings and imperfections, democracy has provided us a genuine vehicle for accelerated development. Better than all other alternatives, the freedom to choose our leaders, which is democracy’s ultimate advantage, has given us the leverage to take our destiny in our own hands.
2. On this day 3 years ago, a new era opened for us, as a government elected by the popular will of the people took the reins of leadership. From the very minute we took our oath, the task of charting a new course for the State kicked off in earnest. We hit the ground running from the very beginning because the promise of restoration could wait no longer. We were resolute in our resolve to push things into motion because we understood the weight of public expectation on our shoulders. Barely 24 hours after our inauguration, we were in the streets of Aba, leading the refuse disposal effort, not minding the heavy downpour. By refusing to be held back by an inclement weather, we sent out a clear message that the era of making excuses for failure was over. Ours is far from a perfect administration but even the most fervent critic cannot but acknowledge that on the most critical measures of progress, Abia, in the last 3 years, has turned the corner.
3. With the successful execution of more than 400 road infrastructure projects covering over 800 kilometres, it is safe to say that our journey into the transformation of our road networks as a major driver of prosperity across urban and rural communities has started. In the next few months, 82 other roads stretching over 200 kilometres shall be delivered and opened for public use. Our road infrastructure investments are carefully spread in ways that leave no part of the State behind; we are as mindful of the expectations of the Aba industrial and trading community as we are conscious of the wealth of resources that quality roads can open up in our agrarian centres. The timely completion of Port Harcout Road in Aba, Aguiyi Ironsi Boulevard in Umuahia and the 67-kilometre Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Abriba-Ohafia Road offers a telling example of the balance of our outlay. The quality of work on the new bridge over Igu River, adjacent to the historic Omenuko Bridge, point to the joy of restoration and the place of memory in our evolution. This same testimony is what you get from regular commuters at Ohanku Road in Aba, a road that lay in ruins for decades. The dualization of the 5.95-kilometre road leading to Abia Tower from Onuimo Bridge, now named Uma Ukpai Way, and the completion of the 11.5-kilometre Nunya- Eluama Road, now known as Ndubuisi Kanu Road amongst hundreds of other projects, stand as abiding testament to the measure of progress the State has witnessed in the last 36 months.
It is my pleasure to announce that we have officially commissioned the landmark Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal in Umuahia, and it is now ready for public use. The project is a multimodal transport hub designed to accommodate more than 340 buses at once, powered by sustainable infrastructure and connected to our growing network of electric buses.
The facility is named in honour of Prof. Nnenna Nnennaya‑Oti, the courageous INEC Returning Officer in the 2023 governorship election, whose integrity and patriotism remind us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results by simply standing for the truth.
Her name on this terminal is not just about one person, but a tribute to all electoral officials, security operatives, party agents, and citizens who resisted intimidation and defended democracy.
With 20 electric buses already in operation and more on the way in the coming weeks, the project signals our bold vision for a modern, safe, and sustainable transport system in Abia. The facility is also supported with independent power and water systems to ensure uninterrupted operations.
In my address titled “Raising the Bar”, I stated unequivocally that we have moved beyond the era of small ambitions. We refuse to be boxed into margins that underestimate our strength. This principle underpins all our undertakings.
I extend special commendation to the contractors, Planet Projects Limited, for a job well done in delivering this landmark facility. I also appreciate the dedication of the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, the SSA Transport, Dr. Obioma Nwaogbe, and their team for the critical role they played in bringing this vision to reality.
I call on all residents and members of the host community to take ownership of this facility, to maintain a clean environment, and to guard against vandalism. This terminal belongs to you, and its success depends on your care. I also urge all Abians to pay their taxes regularly. Development cannot be sustained without collective responsibility, and every naira contributed helps us deliver the future our people deserve.
Yesterday, May 19th, in Abuja, I attended the Presidential screening organised by our party, which took over two and a half hours. They carefully reviewed all my documents, including my degree certificates, NYSC credentials, and age declarations.
During the process, I also addressed questions regarding my vision for a new Nigeria and the type of leadership our nation urgently needs right now. Following this, I was cleared and received the presidential nomination form I had previously paid for.
I would like to commend the screening committee, led by former governor Sam Egwu, for their thorough and professional approach. Additionally, I appreciate our party's leadership for upholding the democratic process.
A New Nigeria is POssible. - PO
“If I do not provide steady electricity in four years, do not vote for me for 2nd Tenure,” -BAT
Thirty-two months after being incharge and instead of living by his powerful words, he now dumps National Grid that has been performing abysmally under his watch.
Those were the powerful words then that inspired hope among Nigerians who longed for light in their homes, stability for their businesses, and growth for their nation. Yet, while Nigerians are still grappling with that unfulfilled, categorical electoral promise - and without clear communication on the obstacles, if any, we read of provision in 2025 budget about the ₦10 billion for solar power at Aso Rock, and in 2026 budget another humongous amount for upgrade and maintenance and now we are being scarcitically told that Presidential Villa has planned to be disconnected from the national grid to rely entirely on solar.
It is a gross neglect and deeply worrisome when the seat of power abandons the national grid. One would expect government institutions to lead efforts to strengthen and expand the grid so that other establishments, and ultimately, citizens can benefit. If those in authority disconnect themselves from the system, who then will connect the ordinary Nigerian to reliable power?
Promoting renewable energy, as solar systems do, is commendable and necessary for the future. However, this situation reflects a deeper concern: governance lacking compassion and commitment to the governed. You cannot tell the people to fast while feasting yourself, securing yourself while Nigerians remain unsecured.
Nigerians do not expect 100% fulfilment of promises, but they do expect 100% effort, accompanied by measurable improvements and clear explanations when gaps exist. Leadership must serve the people, not isolate itself from their daily struggles. -PO
"Some men change their party for the sake of their principles; others change their principles for the sake of their party." Winston Churchill
Today, May 9th, I attended the 1st convention of my latest party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abuja, Nigeria. The convention was successful and continued to show the resilience of Nigerians to change
I express my sincere appreciation and gratitude to the NDC family, led by the distinguished Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, for inviting us and for the generosity of spirit with which they have accommodated us at this critical moment in our national journey.
I also wish to express profound gratitude to the African Democratic Congress(ADC), particularly Distinguished Senator David Mark, for providing a democratic platform and showing uncommon understanding when the ongoing litigation forced us out of the Labour Party and the New Nigeria People's Party, NNPP respectively. That spirit of solidarity must remain the foundation upon which a better Nigeria will be built.
Today, the most painful aspect of our political existence is that many who once benefited from democratic governance have now become willing accessories to the destruction of democracy itself. Those who once fought for justice now openly celebrate electoral injustice. Those who once spoke against impunity now defend coercion, manipulation, intimidation, and outright political gangsterism, especially against opposition voices. What we are witnessing is not politics; it is a systematic assault on democracy and the will of the people.
Nigeria today stands at a dangerous crossroads. Our democracy is under severe threat. Our nation is drifting without direction, and our people are passing through immense suffering. Across the world, Nigeria is increasingly described as a failing and disgraced nation. This is not the destiny God ordained for our great country. It was not always so, and it must never be allowed to remain so.
Across virtually every recognised indicator of good governance - accountability, political stability, rule of law, control of corruption, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, and the separation of powers - Nigeria continues to record alarming failures. The institutions that should protect the people are weakening daily, while the burden on ordinary citizens grows heavier with each passing moment.
Today, over 140 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty. Tens of millions of young people remain unemployed or underemployed. Inflation continues to crush families. Businesses are shutting down. Farmers can no longer safely access their farms. Communities live in fear. In this month alone, hundreds of innocent Nigerians have lost their lives to insecurity, while many others have been kidnapped, displaced, or thrown deeper into poverty.
The most heartbreaking question confronting us is this: Who consoles the grieving mother whose child was abducted on the way to school? Who speaks for the father who can no longer feed his family despite working every day? Who defends the young Nigerian whose dreams have been destroyed by a nation that rewards connections over competence and corruption over character?
Our present tragedy is not accidental. It is the direct consequence of years of deliberate sabotage by a political class that prospers by dividing the people and weakening the nation. Nigeria is not a poor country; rather, we are being looted into poverty. We have abundant human and natural resources, yet we remain trapped in deprivation because leadership has failed to place the common good above personal interest.
Our choice as a people is therefore clear: whether to surrender to despair and national decline, or to summon the courage to rescue our country and rebuild it on the foundations of unity, equity, justice, competence, and productivity.