Otti Commends Father Anokwuru’s Humanitarian Vision, Pledges Partnership on Geriatric Village Project

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has congratulated his Special Adviser on Policies and Interventions, Rev. Father Christian Anokwuru, on the successful launch of his new book and his commitment to use the proceeds to establish a geriatric village aimed at improving the welfare and healthcare of the elderly.

Speaking during the event held at the JAAC Building Secretariat, where the book titled “Nature and Nurture: Beyond Autobiography” was unveiled, Governor Otti praised Rev. Father Anokwuru for his selfless vision and dedication to humanitarian causes.

“I want to congratulate Father Anokwuru for his courage, resilience, and hard work in completing this book. I’m particularly impressed that he’s dedicating the proceeds to a noble cause — building a home for the aged with an integrated healthcare centre. It’s already a success,” the Governor stated.

Governor Otti further pledged his administration’s support through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to ensure the geriatric village becomes a reality. He directed the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, to collaborate with Rev. Father Anokwuru to design a workable framework for the partnership.

“I don’t think government should sit back and let him do this alone. We will partner with him, co-own the project, and support it financially. The elderly who will benefit are our people, and they deserve quality care,” Otti affirmed.

Also speaking, the Co-Chairman of the occasion and member representing Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, urged individuals and organizations to rally behind the project, describing it as a vital social investment.

In their goodwill messages, former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, and Chairman of the Greater Aba Development Authority, Ide John Udeagbala, commended Father Anokwuru’s compassion and Governor Otti’s leadership. Dr. Ogah lauded Otti’s transformative governance, declaring that “light has come to Abia State, and only those who dwell in darkness will deny it.”

In his remarks, Rev. Father Anokwuru shared that the book chronicles experiences that shaped his life and values. He recalled his advocacy for good governance dating back to 2013 when he first met Dr. Otti, noting that the Governor’s leadership aligns with his ideals. He reaffirmed his pledge to channel all proceeds from the launch into the construction of the geriatric village.

Professor Charles Chilekezi, Chairman of the Back to the Hero’s Past Charity Organisation and the geriatric project, emphasized that the initiative reflects a moral duty to care for the elderly and promised full transparency in utilizing the funds.

The highlight of the event included the official unveiling of the book and the geriatric village prototype by Governor Otti. The ceremony also featured a book review by Professor Mike Okoro and was attended by the Speaker and members of the Abia State House of Assembly, top government officials, clergy, traditional rulers, students, and other dignitaries.