Otti, Imoke Celebrate Abia’s 35th Anniversary, Urge Continued Support for State’s Development

The Abia State Government yesterday held an Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service as part of activities marking the 35th anniversary of the creation of Abia State.

Speaking at the event held at the Okpara Square Event Centre, Umuahia, and themed “The Rise of a New Abia,” Governor Dr Alex Otti said the anniversary thanksgiving offered Abians an opportunity to acknowledge God’s role in the state’s journey and development trajectory.

Governor Otti noted that his administration had consistently commenced major activities with thanksgiving because of its conviction that the prayers, sacrifices and support of the people had contributed significantly to the progress recorded in the state.

He commended religious leaders for their unwavering support and prayers for the peace, progress and development of Abia, urging Abians not to lose hope in the face of difficulties.

The Governor also used the occasion to congratulate the Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on his electoral victory, noting his maternal connection to Abia through his mother, who is an indigene of Akwete in Ukwa East Local Government Area of the state.

Earlier, former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, who attended the service, commended the Otti-led administration for what he described as the unprecedented transformation taking place in Abia.

Imoke said his assessment was based not only on what he heard during the church service but also on his personal observation of some of the projects being executed by the state government.

He urged Abians to continue supporting Governor Otti to succeed, and prayed that the Governor would emerge victorious in the 2027 elections to enable him to continue his developmental projects across the state.

The 35th anniversary thanksgiving service was attended by the wife of the Governor, Mrs Priscilla Otti; the Deputy Governor, Chief Ikechukwu Emetu, and his wife, among other dignitaries.

The event featured an exhortation by the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese, Most Rev. Dr Lucius Ugorji, as well as praise and worship led by renowned gospel artiste, Buchi.