Governor Alex Otti says his administration is determined to continue to expand the frontiers of opportunities for the state and its citizens to thrive.

Mr Otti said this on Tuesday in his goodwill message to mark the 33rd anniversary of the creation of Abia in Umuahia.

Abia was created on August 27, 1991 during the military dictatorship of Gen Ibrahim Babangida.

The governor said the government was desirous of supporting the men and women of Abia and working to actualise the founding fathers’ vision.

Mr Otti said, “Through our infrastructure restoration and expansion projects in rural and urban communities, new corridors of opportunities are being created in agriculture and allied industries, retail trade, transportation, petroleum and solid mineral exploration, and so much more. Our economic development agenda is firmed on the creation of jobs and alleviation of poverty.”

According to the Abia governor, the government has embarked on building a new Abia, and the people have become active players in rebuilding the state.

He explained that the citizens provide critical support and direction to ensure that the government fulfils its promises and state resources are properly utilised to meet the needs of the majority.

Mr Otti said the government had evolved a comprehensive development framework, which explains the focus on building new physical infrastructure and improving access to social services through sustained investments.

“Additionally, communities that were previously held hostage by criminal gangs have been liberated on the strength of our commitment to making Abia a truly safe destination for residents and businesses,” the governor said.

Mr Otti promised to double his efforts and work very hard to fulfil his campaign promises, which, he said, won his administration the trust of the people.

“We acknowledge that things have not gone according to plan, following unanticipated economic headwinds that have made planning very difficult for families, businesses and the government. Even then, we must refuse to give in to despair because this present storm shall definitely pass.

“We should go out today and always with our heads held high like our ancestors. We are the scions of brave men and women, our parents and grandparents lived through wars and famine, yet, they did not stop dreaming, they were set apart by the power of optimism. As a people, this is the best time to look beyond the present circumstances and count our many blessings,” Mr Otti added.

He urged the people to take great pride in the achievements of the state in its 33 years and step into the future with courage that “our victory will come.”

Mr Otti said, “Abia, as we promised, shall be great in our lifetime because we know we have what it takes to do it, and we shall do it for ourselves and our children.” 

(NAN)