Umuahia, Nigeria – In a significant show of unity and commitment to the progress of the Igbo people, Abia State Governor Alex Otti has pledged unwavering support from the five governors of the South-East region to newly elected Ohanaeze Ndigbo President-General, John Mbata.
The assurance was made during a courtesy visit by Mbata and his Deputy National President, Okey Nwadinobi, to Otti’s residence in Umuehim Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. The visit, held on Tuesday, was an opportunity for the new Ohanaeze Ndigbo leadership to express gratitude for the governors’ support during the January 10 elections that brought Mbata to the helm of the pan-Igbo organization.
Governor Otti’s Endorsement of Mbata
Governor Otti praised Mbata’s leadership qualities, describing him as a man of integrity, fairness, and transparency. Otti expressed confidence in Mbata’s ability to effectively lead Ohanaeze Ndigbo during this critical time for the Igbo people.
“The task ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but I am confident in your ability to succeed,” Otti said. “As governors, we are committed to the development and unity of our people. We have no personal agendas. If anyone asks you to deviate from this noble mission, they are out of line.”
Otti highlighted the strategic role of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in fostering unity and promoting Igbo culture and heritage. He also emphasized the need for collective leadership, saying, “Leadership is about the welfare of the people. Your consistency, truthfulness, and dedication to equity make you the perfect choice for this role.”
Strengthening Ohanaeze’s Vision
In his remarks, President-General Mbata expressed gratitude to Otti and the South-East governors for their steadfast support. He acknowledged the critical role the governors played in ensuring a smooth and successful election process for the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
“We are eager to consult, collaborate, and cooperate with you and the other governors to advance the interests of our people,” Mbata stated. “This visit is both a personal expression of gratitude and a reaffirmation of our commitment to the shared goals that unite us as a people.”
Mbata also lauded Otti’s achievements in governance, commending his administration for prioritizing timely salary payments, infrastructure development, and rural transformation. “Having known you for decades, I expected nothing less than excellence,” he said.
A Unified Agenda for Igbo Advancement
Governor Otti reiterated the collective resolve of South-East governors to work hand in hand with Ohanaeze Ndigbo to strengthen unity among the Igbo people. He outlined his administration’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, ensure prompt payment of workers, and expand development initiatives to rural areas.
“The welfare of the people remains our top priority,” Otti said. “We are committed to ensuring that our collective efforts as governors and your leadership at Ohanaeze Ndigbo create a brighter future for our people.”
Moving Forward
The visit marks the beginning of a collaborative relationship between the Ohanaeze Ndigbo executive team and South-East governors. Mbata reiterated his commitment to leveraging the governors’ support and experience to strengthen Ohanaeze’s role as a unifying body for the Igbo people.
“The new executive team will soon pay an official visit to further align our shared vision and priorities. I am confident that with the support of leaders like you, we will achieve great strides in promoting the welfare and unity of the Igbo people,” Mbata concluded.
This renewed partnership signals a promising future for the South-East, with leaders working in concert to address challenges and harness opportunities for regional development.
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