Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has said his administration is deliberately creating an environment capable of attracting investments and encouraging Abians living outside the state and country to return home.
Otti stated this on Thursday, October 1, 2026, while receiving members of Umu-Aba Connect at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia.
The group, comprising successful individuals who were born and raised in Aba, visited the governor to appreciate his administration’s activities and invite him to its 10th Annual General Meeting scheduled to hold in Aba.
The governor said his administration was focused not only on addressing existing challenges but also on laying the foundation for future economic opportunities for younger generations.
According to him, government’s responsibility is to create the right conditions for businesses to thrive rather than compel people to return to the state.
“I see a lot of you relocating back anytime soon. But, it has to be an economic decision. We don’t force people; we create the enabling environment,” Otti said.
He noted that improved infrastructure and renewed economic activity were already attracting private-sector investments to Abia, particularly in the hospitality industry.
Otti disclosed that Hilton was coming to the state, while Radisson Blu had established a presence in Aba through the ongoing redevelopment of Enyimba Hotel.
He also revealed that he had held discussions with the Italian Ambassador and his team on possible collaboration with shoemakers in Aba, stressing that businesses would naturally respond to favourable operating conditions.
The governor further announced plans to commence the reconstruction of Uratta and Old Express Roads in October, saying the projects were expected to help ease congestion.
He also outlined plans for the development of Ifeobara, including the construction of a lake and high-end residential estates.
Otti said the projects formed part of his administration’s broader plan to position Abia for future growth and ensure that younger generations inherit better infrastructure and opportunities.
“We are saying that we are planning for the future. We have the future in mind. We want our children not to experience the difficulties,” he said.
On education, the governor highlighted the construction of Smart Schools and other public school projects, urging members of Umu-Aba Connect to visit some of the facilities completed or being developed by the administration.
Earlier, the President General of Umu-Aba Connect, Dr Chima Anyaso, said the association was established by young and successful Aba indigenes committed to giving back to the society that shaped them.
Anyaso said holding the association’s AGM in Aba was significant, particularly for members who had previously left the city because of deteriorating conditions.
He commended the governor’s administration for its achievements and assured him of the association’s support for his re-election.
The association’s Vice President, Ugochukwu Duru, also praised the administration’s efforts in infrastructure and security, saying the changes had renewed confidence among Abians in the diaspora.
The meeting was attended by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba; Special Adviser on Policy and Intervention, Rev. Fr. Christian Anokwuru; banker and Aba indigene, Alex Alozie; and other government officials.
