Nigerian economist and former Central Bank of Nigeria Deputy Governor Kingsley Moghalu has described the performance of Abia State Governor Alex Otti as highly impressive, while also pointing to deeper issues affecting governance in Nigeria.

In a post shared on X after a visit to Governor Otti at Isiala Ngwa South, Abia State, Moghalu praised the governor’s leadership style and results in office.

“His performance in governance has been most impressive,” Moghalu said, adding that effective governance that improves people’s lives is what should define good politics, a lesson he believes many Nigerian leaders have not fully embraced.

He explained that their discussions focused on the progress of the Otti administration, as well as the challenges of strengthening key foundations needed for industrialisation and inclusive economic growth in Abia State.

Moghalu also noted that the First Lady of Abia State, Chidinma Otti, hosted them for dinner during the visit. He described the governor as a friend and brother, wishing him continued success.

Governor Otti, 61, was elected in 2023 on the platform of the Labour Party and is expected to seek re-election in 2027.

Since assuming office, Otti has received praise for his efforts to improve infrastructure and sanitation in Aba, the state’s commercial centre, which was once widely criticised for poor environmental conditions. His administration has also been credited with boosting the ease of doing business in the state.

One notable reform is the faster processing of Certificates of Occupancy, which now reportedly takes about 30 days. According to state officials, 1,037 CofOs were issued in 2024, the highest in 13 years.

Abia State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Chaka Chukwumerije, explained that the system has been fully automated, allowing applicants to track their processes digitally from start to finish.

He said Governor Otti signs Certificates of Occupancy within 24 hours using an electronic signature system, adding that the process has been designed to reduce delays, eliminate middlemen, and improve transparency.

He also highlighted the introduction of a one-stop service centre where applicants can complete banking, tax, and survey processes in a single location.

Beyond Moghalu’s remarks, other prominent Nigerians have also acknowledged improvements in the state. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has previously noted visible signs of governance in Abia, while lawyer Chidi Odinkalu recently observed that hope appears to be returning to the state under the current administration.