Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has approved the establishment of a Mini Hollywood and Entertainment Village in Aba, alongside the creation of an Arts and Culture Gallery in Umuahia, as part of efforts to deepen the development of the State’s creative economy.
Governor Otti disclosed this on Saturday at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, during a ceremony organised to celebrate the 65th birthday of renowned Abia-born Music Legend, Sir Bright Chimezie, popularly known as the Duke of African Music and creator of the Zigima sound.
The Governor said that although Abia may not yet enjoy the global recognition of California, the State is determined to grow its creative industry within its capacity.
He urged artists and other Stakeholders in the Arts and Culture Sector to engage actively with the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy to harness emerging opportunities.
Governor Otti praised Sir Bright Chimezie for his immense contributions to the promotion of Igbo language and culture, describing him as a Cultural Ambassador who has brought pride to Abia State and Igboland through his music and innovations.
“We cannot abandon those who laboured hard to build our cultural identity.
“Bright Chimezie is a legend who has earned his place. As a government, we are open to collaboration and support for people whose work align with our vision”, the Governor said.
He described the celebrant as an Icon of the Nigerian Music Industry who has built a reputable name through discipline, talent and cultural authenticity.
Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting creativity, entrepreneurship and job creation, stressing that public resources would be directed towards initiatives that stimulate economic growth rather than personal enrichment.
He also made it clear that his Government’s would not celebrate individuals of questionable character, particularly those who amassed wealth through criminal activities.
“If you made your money through stealing, drug peddling or 419, I will not celebrate you. That is not what we are known for.
“If in the past, we were not celebrating our heroes and our icons, from now we will be celebrating them.
“And it’s a challenge so that you know that when you do it right, somebody will celebrate you.
“But you also have to be careful how you deal with money. If you went and stole, I would not celebrate you. Money is good, but how you made it matters”, Governor Otti stated.
The Governor further emphasised the values of dignity, integrity and hard work, noting that these principles underpin his administration’s heavy investment in Education.
According to him, the introduction of compulsory Education policies has resulted in a significant increase in school enrolment across the state.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr Matthew Ekwuribe, described Sir Bright Chimezie as one of Abia State’s finest Music Legends and commended Governor Otti for his consistent recognition and celebration of excellence.
He noted that the Arts and Culture sector has recorded remarkable progress under the current administration.
In their goodwill messages, the traditional ruler of Ekeoba Community, Eze Iheanyichukwu Nwokenna, and the elder brother of the celebrant, Chief Benson Irommuo, thanked Governor Otti for honouring their son and brother, expressing pride in his achievements and contributions to music and culture.
Responding, Sir Bright Chimezie who turned 65 on October 1, 2025.expressed profound gratitude to Governor Otti for the recognition, describing the honour as historic and unforgettable.
He assured that the entertainment community would always remember the Governor’s gesture and prayed for divine guidance and the fulfilment of his vision beyond 2027.
The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), represented by Ejeh Williams, entertained guests with Musical performances and appealed to the Governor for government support, including the provision of a functional studio and a bus to enhance members’ mobility
The event featured the cutting of a birthday cake and electrifying musical performances, drawing top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, members of PMAN and the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), artistes, friends and well-wishers, including indigenes of Ekeoba Ohuhu, the celebrant’s hometown.
