ABIA AT 35: Emetu Celebrates Progress, Reaffirms Commitment to the Rise of a New Abia
The Deputy Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, has congratulated Governor Alex Chioma Otti, and the people of Abia State, both at home and abroad, on the 35th anniversary of the creation of the state.
In a goodwill message marking the anniversary, Emetu described Abia’s 35-year journey as one defined by resilience, sacrifice, creativity, enterprise and the determination of its people to overcome challenges and make meaningful contributions to the development of the state and Nigeria.
He noted that since its creation on August 27, 1991, Abia has produced outstanding citizens whose achievements in business, academia, medicine, engineering, technology, agriculture, manufacturing, public service and other fields have continued to enhance the state’s reputation.
According to him, the anniversary provides an opportunity not only to celebrate the achievements of the past 35 years but also to reflect on the collective responsibility of the present generation to build a stronger, more prosperous and sustainable Abia for future generations.
The Deputy Governor said the state was currently witnessing a new phase of purposeful development, driven by renewed attention to infrastructure, institutional strengthening, improved public service delivery, economic revitalisation and the welfare of the people.
He attributed the emerging transformation to the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, whom he described as visionary, disciplined and results-oriented, noting that the administration’s determination to translate policies into tangible projects and measurable outcomes was steadily changing the development trajectory of the state.
Emetu said the vision of “The Rise of a New Abia” was becoming increasingly evident in the administration’s efforts to rehabilitate critical infrastructure, upgrade public facilities, improve healthcare delivery, strengthen education and human capital development, support businesses and investment, and create opportunities for citizens to prosper.
He said: “Celebrating 35 years in the life of our beloved state is a momentous occasion.
Today, we are not only reflecting on our journey so far; we are looking ahead with renewed confidence and pride in the opportunities before us.
“Through the visionary, disciplined and purposeful leadership of my principal, Governor Alex Otti, we are turning our governance goals into concrete actions, with the welfare and prosperity of everyday Abians at the centre of our mission.”
The Deputy Governor stressed that the transformation of Abia remained a collective responsibility, urging citizens to support the development process through unity, peace, responsible citizenship, productivity and patriotism.
He also called on Abians in the diaspora to continue to contribute their knowledge, expertise and resources to the development of their home state.
Emetu particularly encouraged young people in the state to see themselves as active participants in the transformation agenda rather than mere beneficiaries. He urged them to acquire relevant skills, embrace innovation and take advantage of emerging opportunities.
He commended traditional rulers, religious leaders, women, youths, professionals, entrepreneurs, artisans, workers and members of the organised private sector for their contributions to the growth and development of Abia State.
The Deputy Governor also urged public servants to uphold professionalism, integrity, diligence and commitment to service, stressing that strong institutions remained essential to sustaining the gains of development.
Reflecting on Abia’s identity as “God’s Own State,” Emetu said the state’s progress must continue to be anchored on faith, hard work and responsible leadership.
“Abia is proudly known as God’s Own State, and our progress is deeply anchored in faith, hard work and divine guidance. I encourage all Abians to remain steadfast, united and focused on the tasks ahead. Let us join forces to create a prosperous, peaceful and thriving Abia that will remain a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come,” he said.
Emetu reaffirmed his commitment, alongside Governor Otti, to the administration’s mission of transforming the state and improving the quality of life of its citizens.
He prayed for continued peace, stability and prosperity in Abia, while asking God to grant the state’s leaders the wisdom, courage and strength to discharge their responsibilities with humility and dedication.
While acknowledging the achievements and milestones recorded in Abia’s 35 years of existence, the Deputy Governor said the greatest celebration would be the emergence of a state where every citizen has the opportunity to live, work, invest, raise a family and prosper with dignity.
“We honour our past, cherish the present, but must be courageous enough to build an even brighter future. The best chapters of Abia’s story are still to come. The journey continues, and together, we will build the Abia of our dreams,” he said.
The Deputy Governor once again congratulated Governor Alex Otti and the entire people of Abia State on the 35th anniversary of the state’s creation, wishing them a peaceful, joyful and memorable celebration.
Happy 35th Anniversary, Abia State!
