Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to godly leadership and people-oriented governance as the state was formally rededicated to God during the 2026 New Year Thanksgiving Service organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Abia State Chapter.
The solemn interdenominational service, held on Sunday at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Wesley Cathedral, Umuahia, marked the spiritual commencement of the year and attracted top government officials, church leaders, and worshippers from across the state.
Governor Otti, who was represented by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, described the Otti-led administration as one that recognizes the indispensable role of divine guidance in governance.
He praised CAN for its consistent spiritual support and partnership with the government. “CAN, under the leadership of Rev. Ojo Ojo Uduma, has remained a strategic partner in our collective quest to build a more prosperous, inclusive, and morally grounded Abia State,” Governor Otti said.
He urged the Christian body to sustain its prayers for the Governor and the state, assuring that the administration would continue to prioritize the welfare of Abians while seeking God’s direction in policy formulation and leadership decisions. However, he cautioned against what he described as a growing laxity among Christians, urging believers to deepen their spiritual lives and actively engage national issues.
He challenged the faithful to recommit to soul-winning, the study of God’s Word, and active participation in civic responsibilities, particularly the ongoing voter registration exercise.
In his remarks, the Abia State CAN Chairman, Rev. Ojo Ojo Uduma, expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for his support and openness to faith-based engagement. He attributed the “commendable performance” of the current administration to the church’s obedience to its biblical mandate of praying for those in authority.
“The results are evident in improved service delivery and visible infrastructural development across the state,” Rev. Uduma noted, adding that these tangible achievements have further strengthened the church’s resolve to continually uphold the government in prayers.
The service featured a sermon by the Archbishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Umuahia Diocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Chibuzo Opoko, delivered by the Right Rev. Ikechukwu Chimezie.
The Archbishop thanked God for what he described as a “new dawn” in Abia State, characterized by renewed hope and visible development.
The thanksgiving service also included scriptural readings from Psalm 136:1–12, intercessory prayers for Governor Otti and the Abia State Government, prophetic declarations, and the formal rededication of Abia State to God.
