Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has expressed readiness to partner with the Governor of Delaware, United States America, Dr. Bethany Hall-Long, to explore collaborative opportunities in key sectors of the economy.
Governor Otti made the statement on Friday during a meeting at Okpara Auditorium Umuahia Umuahia, where he received a delegation led by the 75th Governor of Delaware, Dr. Hall-Long, who visited Abia to discuss potential areas of cooperation.
Governor Otti noted that the people of Abia, like other Igbo communities, do not rely on handouts but seek infrastructure and an enabling environment to thrive in business.
He highlighted that a partnership with Delaware would bring mutual benefits, especially in creating economic opportunities for the people.
“We believe in self-reliance. Abians, like the rest of the Igbo people are hardworking and entrepreneurial. What we need is social infrastructure and an environment conducive to doing business.
“A collaboration with the United States will undoubtedly yield positive results for both parties”, Governor Otti stated.
Governor Otti who explained the rationale behind the defraying of long-standing pension arrears, said that it was aimed at stimulating the local economy by putting money directly into the hands of citizens.
“When we came in and we said we want to pay several years of accumulated pension arrears, the whole idea was to put money in the hands of people.
“I am pleased to have you here and it’s also an invitation for partnership. We would be very happy to work with your team to explore collaboration. I have fantastic people here in Abia”, he assured the Delaware delegation.
The Governor also outlined the significant strides his administration has made in the areas of Education and Healthcare, including the provision of free and compulsory basic education, the employment of thousands of teachers, and the retrofitting of Healthcare Facilities across the State.
He revealed that over 700 Medical Personnel had been recruited to improve the State’s Healthcare System.
In her address earlier, the Governor of the State of Delaware, a former legislator and Professor of Nursing at the University of Delaware Dr. Bethany Hall-Long, expressed her interest in fostering collaboration between Delaware and Abia.
Dr. Hall-Long highlighted the potential for joint efforts with the Abiav State Government in various sectors, including Healthcare and Education.
“I am in Abia to seek collaborations with your administration. With 25 years of experience in the state legislature, as lieutenant governor, and briefly as governor of Delaware, I hope we can build bridges between our regions.
“I am honoured to be here with a leader who balances humanity with economic development. There is a lot we can do together, including collaborations in medical supplies and other areas”, she added.
Dr. Hall-Long also commended Governor Otti’s leadership, noting that the Governor’s two years in office had produced impressive results.
“It’s really important that you have your leadership, sir, that in just two years, you have accomplished so much. I know you’ve done this with an incredible team and courageous leadership”, she said.
Earlier while Introducing the Governor of the State of Delaware, Senator Uche Ekwunife of Anambra State said the delegation is in Abia to collaborate with the State Government in various areas of the economy.
Sen Ekwunife who commended Governor Otti’s administration for its achievements, particularly in areas of Security and Infrastructure emphasized that Abia is a critical player in Nigeria’s economy.
She described Abia as an industrial hub and noted that any disruptions in the State would have far-reaching effects across the Country and even Africa.
“I am truly very proud of you and your performance. When I was coming, I was telling her that Abia State is known for industrial hub.
“This is one state that if anything happens to the economy of Abia State, it will affect the whole of Nigeria and Africa in general.
“So I believe that Abia is blessed at this moment to have you (Gov. Otti), to be at the helm of the affairs of this great states” Sen. Ekwunife stated.
