Otti Reaffirms Commitment to Revive Key Industries, Tackle Unemployment at Ngwa Day Celebration

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling unemployment through the revival of key industries in the state.

Governor Otti gave the assurance on Sunday, December 28, at Ngwa High School, Aba, during the 2025 Ngwa Day Celebration themed “Ngwaness: Umunna Ehila.” The event was organised by the Ngwa Social Club, a socio-cultural group representing the seven Ngwa Local Government Areas of Abia State.

The Governor explained that his administration is prioritising job creation and security by resuscitating moribund industries to sustain the state’s ongoing transformation. He disclosed that the government is currently in advanced discussions with Lebanese investors to revitalise the Aba Textile Mill, while talks are also ongoing on reviving the International Glass Industry and a metallurgical plant.

While urging residents to remain patient and supportive, Otti assured that more developmental strides would be recorded across different sectors as the government continues to reposition the state.

He commended the appointment of Chief Theo Nkire, the state’s first Attorney-General, as the new leader of the Ngwa nation, describing the recognition as well-deserved and pledging his support. The Governor also stressed the importance of preserving Ngwa cultural heritage and announced that the late Chief Jaja Wachukwu, the first leader of the Ngwa people, would be honoured by the state government on January 1, 2026, during the celebration of his 108th posthumous birthday at Nsulu.

In their goodwill messages, Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe, Augustine Akobundu, and Nkechi Nworgu expressed deep appreciation to the Governor for gracing the occasion despite his busy schedule. They described his presence as a demonstration of leadership, humility, and respect for the people, while applauding his achievements in infrastructure, human capital development, and governance.

Also speaking, former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Chief Chidi Ajaegbu, hailed the event as an opportunity for the Ngwa people to showcase their cultural heritage. He commended the organisers and urged Ngwa citizens to continue supporting the Governor to consolidate the gains recorded so far.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Orjinta Alala, noted that the event also provided an avenue for the Ngwa people to select a new leader following the passing of their former leader, the late Dr. Emmanuel Adaelu. He announced Chief Theo Nkire as the new leader of the Ngwa nation.

The highlight of the ceremony was the formal unveiling and presentation of Chief Theo Nkire to the Governor as the new leader of the Ngwa nation. The colourful event attracted dignitaries from across the country and featured cultural displays including Ikoro, Ekpo, and Mgbede Umuabogho.