Otti says transformation of Aba remains top priority of government

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, has said that the ongoing transformation of Aba, the state’s commercial hub remained one of the top priorities of his government.

Aba, a manufacturing hub with large concentration of garment and finished leather products manufacturers (shoe, belt, bag and trunk box makers) is touted as the small and medium enterprises (SME) capital of Nigeria and West Africa. Governor Otti stated this Wednesday while hosting a delegation from the Aba Sports Club 1926, led by Nkene Louis Enukeme, the 68th president of the club, in his office.

This is as he reiterated his administration’s commitment to keep reinventing a conducive business environment to enhance economic fortunes of the state.

The governor noted that the ongoing transformation of Aba remains one of the top priorities of his government.

In his words, “As a government, we’ll do everything possible to continue to reinvent Aba. We talked about the Radisson Blu-Enyimba Hotel, and of course construction is on.

“The presence of a Five-Star Hotel in Aba will automatically redefine and elevate virtually everything. It will not send people out, but it will bring them up.”

Governor Otti noted that the establishment of a world-class hospitality facility, such as the Radisson Blu – Enyimba Hotel, would raise standards across sectors and inspire healthy competition within the business community.

“There are gains to come. If you want to maintain a hotel in Aba, then you have to aim to be at the highest standard. That’s how societies improve. That’s how organisations also support society,” Governor Otti stated.

Otti congratulated Enukeme on his emergence, as President of the club and commended him for sustaining and building upon the legacies of his late father.

“It doesn’t happen like that very often. A lot of people, who have built things, by the time they leave, the entire thing collapses.

“So, you need to also document some of those things that you did so that others can learn. I’m proud of you; just keep it up,” Governor Otti added.

Enukeme earlier stated that the visit was primarily to express solidarity and deepen partnership with the governor, acknowledging the significant infrastructural improvements recorded at the club, through the administration’s support.

He noted that the club has closely followed the governor’s transformative leadership since assuming office, describing the visible shift in governance culture, marked by fiscal discipline and infrastructural renewal, as commendable and inspiring.

“The visible shift in the governance culture of Abia State, characterised by fiscal discipline and a clear focus on infrastructural renewal, is not only commendable, but serves as a beacon of hope for all Abians.”

Enukeme further stated that the recent flag-off of the Radisson Blu – Enyimba Hotel in Aba aligns with the Governor’s rebuilding agenda, adding that the Club is prepared to complement government efforts, by providing a befitting golf course and sports facilities for visitors to Aba.

He also highlighted some pressing needs of the club, including the remodeling of its event hall, provision of a fully equipped ambulance and clinic to prevent sudden deaths, and the installation of a functional fire hydrant system.

Nwaobilor Ananaba, state’s commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Uzor Nwachukwu, commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uche Ukeje, director general, Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA), were among top government functionaries present during the visit.