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Governor Otti Seeks Partnership With China, Expresses Disaffection With CCECC Over Projects Delay

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti has sought useful partnership with the People's Republic of China to improve the economy of the State.

Governor Otti was speaking on Wednesday, 11th June when he received a delegation of the Consul-General of the People's Republic of China to Nigeria, Ms. Yan Yuqing, who paid him a working visit.

The Governor, who said that he is willing to partner the People's Republic of China, noted that Abia people share similar traits with Chinese; traits such as resilience and hard work.

"The can-do spirit, the entrepreneurial spirit, the never say die spirit. That's what you get in Abia people. That's why the way to approach development here will be different from the way you approach it elsewhere.

"Our people are very hard working. They do not really believe in handouts. They believe they can fend for themselves.

"But then, you cannot also rule out the vagaries of the economy and all the challenges that come with it. That's why today, we (Nigerians) are still as a country dealing with somewhere around 50% of our people living in poverty. That's a large number, when you compare that with China, 1.42 Billion people economy and the poverty rate is just 1%.

"So, we must do something intentional to ensure that we get our people out of poverty," Gov. Otti stated.

Governor Otti used the opportunity to express his dissatisfaction over the delays in delivering road projects by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and said he is no longer willing to give them jobs when they are delaying in delivering the jobs already given to them.

"Now, specifically to CCECC, yes we did give you the first two jobs in Aba. You completed one on time and the other one took so long. And then we gave you another two more.

"So, the reason I've decided not to give you jobs anymore is for you to complete the ones you are already on.

DEMOCRACY DAY 2025: “MAY THE SACRIFICES OF OUR HEROES CONTINUE TO INSPIRE US”

My dear citizens of Kaduna State,
today, June 12, we join our compatriots in commemorating Democracy Day; a moment to honour the courage and sacrifices of those who fought for the enthronement and sustenance of constitutional democracy in our dear country. As a pro-democracy activist, I deeply understand the struggles we waged and the importance of safeguarding our freedoms.

June 12 holds a special place in our national history. It marks a defining moment in our collective struggle for democracy and our continued journey toward building a free and just nation. Thirty-two years ago, on June 12, 1993, Nigerians set aside regional, religious, and ethnic differences to overwhelmingly vote for Chief MKO Abiola in an election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in our history. That day, we demonstrated our unity in diversity and our unwavering desire for democratic governance.

The annulment of that historic election was a dark chapter in our nation’s history. Yet, it served as a powerful catalyst, galvanizing citizens and activists alike in pursuit of a common goal—democracy. As we celebrate this day, let us reflect on the progress we have made and acknowledge the challenges that still lie ahead. Since the return to democratic rule in 1999, we have taken significant steps forward, even as we continue to confront new hurdles.

Our country still faces economic and security challenges. But these challenges are not insurmountable. With unity, resilience, and determination, we shall overcome them.

In Kaduna State, we have devoted ourselves to the strengthening and deepening of democracy. We run an inclusive and consultative administration. Our work is anchored on the principles of transparency and accountability. The citizens are at the center of our development agenda. We have demonstrated unwavering commitment to uplifting the living conditions of the poor, vulnerable and underserved. We

Our investment in public infrastructure is strategic - not merely for aesthetics, but as a deliberate catalyst for economic growth. I am particularly glad to note the steady progress in the construction of the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Center (EIICC) and the ongoing renovation of the Concord Hilton Hotel.

These landmark projects are advancing significantly, marking a clear improvement from the last time I conducted an inspection, and the transformation underway is not just visible - it is visionary.

The structural evolution of both facilities reflects our commitment to creating enabling environments for business, tourism, and international engagements. Each brick laid is a step closer to repositioning our State as a premier destination, generate jobs, attract investments, and stimulate inclusive economic prosperity.

This was said by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma on his social media Handle