Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reiterated his administration’s stance against indiscriminate borrowing, emphasizing that any debt incurred under his leadership will be strictly for essential projects that directly benefit the people.
Speaking in Umuahia on Wednesday during a public lecture organized to commemorate the second anniversary of his administration, Governor Otti stressed that his government remains committed to fiscal prudence and transparent governance.
Themed “Two Years of Transformation: Sustaining the Momentum,” the event featured distinguished economist and former Minister of Finance, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, as the guest speaker. The lecture provided a platform for reflection on the administration’s achievements and an opportunity to outline future plans.
Reacting to Dr. Kalu’s presentation, Governor Otti underscored the importance of financial responsibility in driving sustainable development.
“We have had to instill a culture of financial discipline within the government system to reposition Abia on the path of sustainable growth,” he said. “We will only seek loans when it becomes absolutely necessary, and certainly not for frivolous or wasteful purposes.”
The governor highlighted that his administration’s financial strategy centers around consistency in the payment of salaries and pensions, describing it as a key pillar of local economic stimulation.
“Ensuring regular payment of workers and retirees is not just a moral obligation, it’s sound economics. It’s more beneficial to circulate money in the hands of the people than to leave funds idle in government coffers,” he noted.
Governor Otti also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening reforms, fostering innovation, and institutionalizing systems that promote transparency and efficiency in governance.
“As we enter the next phase of this administration, the focus will be on consolidating the reforms already initiated. We envision Abia as a hub of progressive and transformational ideas. Our doors will always remain open to fresh perspectives, because that is how lasting progress is achieved,” he stated.
Expressing gratitude to Dr. Kalu for his insightful lecture, the governor said the anniversary event was designed to provide a moment of honest introspection and to chart a strategic course forward.
“We organized this session to reflect sincerely on our journey so far to assess our successes, identify our shortcomings, and explore ways to improve,” Otti added.
In his lecture, Dr. Kalu encouraged the administration to consider borrowing for capital-intensive projects that generate long-term value, noting that responsible debt management can accelerate development.
He further urged the governor to engage the media not just as a communication tool, but as a strategic development partner.
“The media holds the power to reshape the narrative of this country. They should not be relegated to minor roles they should be empowered to drive the national agenda,” Dr. Kalu advised.
The former finance minister also praised Governor Otti for his efforts in fast-tracking development across the state. However, he cautioned that meaningful progress cannot be sustained in an environment where lawlessness is tolerated.
“A modern society cannot thrive where impunity is allowed to flourish. There must be a strong system of accountability and consequences for misconduct,” he emphasized.
The event drew a diverse audience, including policy experts, civil society leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens, all of whom gathered to review the administration’s performance and contribute to shaping the future of governance in Abia State.
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