Governor Alex Otti on Tuesday applauded the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide during a courtesy visit to his office by the group’s new executives, led by the National Deputy President-General, Okey Nwadinobi.

The governor stated that the Senator Azuta-Mbata-led administration had lived up to expectations, noting that his earlier support for Mbata’s emergence was based on confidence in his capacity to deliver.

“We are very happy with the progress that has been made so far.

“Why you got the support is because we know who you are, we know you have the capacity to do the job. And one year after, I am sure that we are not disappointed.

“So, let him know that we understand and we can see the work that himself (Senator Mbata) and other members of the team are doing,” Otti said.

The governor assured the delegation that all issues raised during the meeting would be reviewed.

“I took note of virtually everything you said. We are going to look at them and see where we fit in,” he added.

Otti reiterated his unwavering support for the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, recalling his administration’s intervention in renovating the state secretariat of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and offsetting outstanding arrears owed over the years.

He congratulated the organisation on the near completion of its National Secretariat and pledged to attend its commissioning. He also commended the leadership for working on a draft constitution expected to be approved soon.

The governor thanked the executives for accepting to serve Ndi Igbo and encouraged them to intensify their efforts for the advancement of the people.

“And clearly what you are doing is visible. And, I want to encourage you to even do more for our people,” he stated.

Earlier, Azuta-Mbata, represented by Nwadinobi, expressed appreciation to the governor for his support and leadership role in enabling him to serve Ndi Igbo.

He commended Otti for transforming governance in Abia State and restoring the dignity of the people, describing the administration’s interventions in education, healthcare, and road infrastructure as unprecedented.

“Almost every community has a health centre. Look at the road to Ohafia, we see what is happening in Aba. We can see there is progress everywhere,” he said.

Azuta-Mbata outlined key programmes of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, including the constitution of a seven-professorial chair committee aimed at preserving and revitalising the Igbo language.

He also urged Southeast governors to prioritise security and economic development in the region to encourage young Igbo entrepreneurs to invest and grow their businesses at home.

Dignitaries present at the visit included Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma, among other senior officials.