ABIA AT 35: “Otti Has Changed The Narrative” — Ukwa East Former Mayor Newman Hails Governor’s Transformation

ABIA AT 35: “Otti Has Changed The Narrative” — Ukwa East Former Mayor Newman Hails Governor’s Transformation

As Abia State marks its 35th anniversary, former Premier Mayor of Ukwa West Local Government Area, Newman Azuh, has commended Governor Alex Otti for what he described as a significant transformation in the state’s leadership and governance.

Azuh, who served as the first Mayor of Ukwa West under the Otti administration, said the governor had given Abians at home and in the diaspora renewed confidence in the state.

Speaking in an interview with News men in his home town Ukwa East , Azuh described his appointment as mayor as a historic experience, particularly because he was living outside Nigeria before being invited to return and serve his community.

He said the opportunity demonstrated a different approach to governance, adding that the performance of the Otti administration had made many Abians proud.

According to him, developments in infrastructure, roads, electricity, healthcare and education are contributing to a change in the perception of Abia.

“Every Abian, both at home and in the diaspora, is really proud of what he has been able to achieve to change the narrative about leadership and governance in Abia State,” Azuh said.

The former mayor also highlighted ongoing interventions in Ukwa West, particularly through the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC).

He cited the ongoing development of the Abia Industrial Innovation Park (AIIP) in Owaza and the Obehie-Owaza road as notable projects in the oil-producing local government.

Azuh, however, acknowledged that more work remains to be done, noting that decades of neglect had left several communities with significant infrastructure deficits.

He said the rehabilitation of schools and primary healthcare facilities was ongoing, while expressing optimism that more interventions would reach Ukwa West.

Reflecting on his own 11-month tenure as mayor, Azu listed the remodeling of the Local Government Secretariat, the construction of a new police station, rehabilitation of the High Court and Customary Court, interventions in water supply and efforts to restore electricity in some communities among his administration’s achievements.

As Abia commemorates its anniversary, Azuh said he believes the state is now “in very safe hands” under Governor Otti.

He urged Abians to remain hopeful, saying the governor’s record and character give him confidence that the administration can meet the high expectations of the people.

For Azuh, Abia’s anniversary is therefore not only a celebration of the state’s past but also an opportunity to look ahead with optimism about its future under the current leadership.