Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti has emphasized the role of planning in driving economic development, urging Commissioners of Budget and Economic Planning across the country to remain committed to evidence-based policy making and strategic execution.
Governor Otti stated this during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, and Commissioners from across the federation, who are in Abia to attend a retreat of the Community of Practice (CoP).
The CoP, an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, is designed to foster collaboration, share best practices, and enhance economic planning between Federal and State Governments.
Governor Otti attributed his administration’s achievements over the past 23 months to intensive groundwork and planning, noting that much of what his government has achieved was anchored on long-term strategic preparation.
He said that no meaningful development can take place without a clear and deliberate roadmap backed by data and realistic assumptions.
“A lot of people don’t understand the job of planning and we won’t blame them because the truth is that everything starts with planning.
“If you don’t plan, that’s already a plan to fail and planning is not just about wishful thinking, it is about defining where you want to go and figuring out how to get there, with the resources you have.
“Planning is not guesswork or wishful thinking. It requires data, vision, and constant adjustment to economic realities, so If you want to succeed, you must plan”, the Governor said.
Earlier, Sen. Bagudu commended the Governor for his leadership qualities, describing him as “one of the beacons of light” in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Bagudu said that the retreat was part of the CoP’s resolution for the generation of periodic stock taking and peer review among states.
“We are here today not just to take stock, but to reaffirm our commitment to building a Nigeria that is economically stronger and more inclusive.
“I want to sincerely appreciate Gov. Otti for agreeing to host this retreat and his leadership, passion, and deep understanding of our society have set him apart.”
Bagudu commended the governor’s achievements within a short span of two years, adding that his performance so far was not surprising given his longstanding dedication to public service.
Bagudu described the Governor’s role in hosting the retreat as a statement that Nigeria still has capable leaders committed to building a secure and prosperous Nigeria.
