Emir of Kano Spends Christmas in Abia, Hails Governor Otti’s Transformational Strides

The Emir of Kano, His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, has applauded the achievements of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, noting that the remarkable transformation taking place in the state is being noticed not only across Nigeria but also internationally.

Sanusi spoke on Thursday, December 25, during the 2025 Atani Day Celebration held at Atani Community School Field in Arochukwu Local Government Area. The Emir, who has enjoyed a long-standing friendship with Governor Otti, joined him to celebrate the event.

“I congratulate Dr. Otti for the great work he has done in Abia. Even outside Abia and outside Nigeria, people have taken note of the transformation of the last two years,” he said. He also expressed pride in serving on Governor Otti’s International Economic Advisory Council and commended the cultural displays at the event, expressing hope for continued unity and bridge-building across Nigeria.

Governor Otti, in his remarks, celebrated the Emir as a resilient leader and long-time friend, recalling their decades of friendship dating back to their days in the banking sector. He praised the Emir’s courage during challenging times, including his removal as CBN Governor and later from the Kano throne, noting that Sanusi never compromised his principles.

The Governor urged citizens to remain steadfast regardless of their challenges, drawing inspiration from the Emir’s resilience. He assured Abians that his administration would not fail them, emphasizing that the government was installed by the people and remains accountable to them.

Otti apologized for inconveniences caused by ongoing construction across the state, assuring residents that contractors have been directed to fast-track projects. He restated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing security, healthcare, education, and other sectors that directly improve citizens’ lives.

Highlighting progress in education, the Governor revealed that Abia has consistently allocated between 15 and 20 percent of its annual budget to healthcare and education over the past two years. He celebrated the recent full accreditation of the Abia State College of Education (Technical), Arochukwu, after years of neglect, noting ongoing rehabilitation of hostels, laboratories, and staff quarters.

The event featured vibrant cultural displays and was attended by the Eze Aro of Arochukwu Kingdom, HRH Eze Eberechukwu Oji, prominent sons and daughters of Atani, top government officials, and dignitaries from within and outside the state.