Governor Alex Otti has assured that the story of Abia will never be the same again with the support of his government by everyone.

Mr Otti said in a bid to rebuild the state, the 2024 budget had been designed to reflect Abia’s dream to be the best in the comity of states.

“Just a few hours ago, I signed into Law the 2024 Abia Appropriation Bill. We decided to take the bull by the horns and thought that we should have a budget that reflects our dreams,” Mr Otti stressed.

He added, “When you have a vision and articulate it well, the money will come. With the support of everyone in Abia, particularly the state House of Assembly, the National Assembly members, and the populace, our story will never be the same again.”

The governor stated this on Thursday at a civic reception organised for the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, who was honoured by the Abia government at the International Conference Center, Umuahia.

In a speech, Mr Otti described the deputy speaker as a good man with a good spirit who should be celebrated and deserving of all the encomiums from the people of Abia.

The governor said the deputy speaker had distinguished himself in his legislative duties. He also said that he had contributed immensely toward improving the security and welfare of the people.

According to him, the Abia government decided to honour him, regardless of his political party, to appreciate his laudable contributions and selfless service to the state.

Mr Kalu said this on Thursday at a civic reception organised in his honour by the Abia Government at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia.

The deputy speaker represents Bende federal constituency on the APC platform, while the governor belongs to the Labour Party.

Mr Kalu called on the Abia people to set aside political differences and unite for the state’s greater good.

“I am proud to assert that my leadership philosophy revolves around the idea that we can only impact well when we partner well, irrespective of political affiliations.

“I want to declare to Nigerians that the governor of Abia is my truest partner in the development of this state. I firmly believe that every leader, whether in the opposition or the ruling party, has a role to play in the development of the state,” Mr Kalu said.

He further said that through collaborative efforts and shared commitment to progress, the state could find innovative solutions and make significant strides toward a better future.

Mr Kalu commended Mr Otti for the respectful relationship between him and President Bola Tinubu, adding that unity remains a crucial factor for the prosperity of Abia.

He also commended Mr Otti for his patriotic mindset, commitment to nation building and inspirational leadership style, which inspired him to strive for excellence in discharging his duties.

Mr Kalu further commended the Abia government for allocating 84 per cent of the 2024 budget to capital projects to foster sustainable development in the state.

He said the budget indicated that the governor was steering Abia in a transformative direction that would encourage prudent fiscal management and strategic investment of public funds.

(NAN)