CIBN Praises Governor Otti for Driving Economic Growth, Calls Him a Model Leader

The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has applauded Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, for his administration’s economic and social achievements, describing him as a goodwill ambassador for the finance sector.

Prof. Pius Olarenwaju, President and Chairman of CIBN, led members of the institute to the Governor’s office on Thursday, February 5th, to commend the state’s progress. He highlighted significant gains under Governor Otti’s leadership, including a 10% rise in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), an 8% reduction in poverty, attraction of major investments, and the creation of over 10,000 jobs.

Prof. Olarenwaju also recognized improvements in healthcare and education, citing strengthened health services, reduced mortality rates, the rollout of health insurance, and enhanced education infrastructure with free school programs. He further praised ongoing road projects and security initiatives, noting that programs like Operation Crush have bolstered safety and youth confidence, driving economic activities.

In addition, the CIBN leader acknowledged Governor Otti’s contributions to the banking industry and expressed the institute’s intention to honor outstanding former bank executives later this year. He encouraged deeper collaboration between CIBN and Abia State in areas such as financial literacy, financial inclusion, and infrastructure development, emphasizing the importance of educating women and youth on financial empowerment.

Governor Otti welcomed the partnership, reaffirming his commitment to sustainable development and the expansion of programs that benefit the public. He shared key achievements of his administration, including job creation, poverty reduction, free and compulsory education—which has doubled school enrollment—recruitment of thousands of teachers, and improved healthcare delivery. The Governor also expressed interest in adopting CIBN’s updated curriculum across state tertiary institutions and lauded the institute’s initiatives in financial literacy and public empowerment.

Senior government officials present at the meeting included the Commissioners for Finance and Agriculture, Hon. Uwaoma and Hon. Cliff Agbaeze, as well as the State Accountant-General, Dr. Mrs. Njum Uma-Onyemenam, FCA, among others.