The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, has congratulated Governor Alex Otti and the people of Abia State at home and abroad on the 35th anniversary of the state’s creation.

In a message marking the anniversary on Thursday, Emetu reflected on Abia’s journey since its creation on August 27, 1991, describing the past 35 years as a period marked by resilience, sacrifice, creativity and innovation.

He noted that despite the challenges encountered over the years, Abians had continued to make significant contributions to business, academia, public service, medicine, engineering, technology, agriculture, manufacturing and other sectors.

The Deputy Governor said the anniversary should serve not only as an occasion for celebration but also as an opportunity for the people to reflect on their collective responsibility to build a stronger, more prosperous and sustainable state for future generations.

According to him, Abia is entering a new phase of deliberate development, with renewed attention to infrastructure, institutional strengthening, public service delivery, economic revitalisation and citizens’ welfare.

Emetu attributed the ongoing transformation to what he described as the visionary, disciplined and results-driven leadership of Governor Otti.

“Celebrating thirty-five years in the life of our beloved state is a momentous occasion that deserves recognition. Today, we are not just reflecting on our journey so far; we are looking ahead with fresh confidence and immense pride in the opportunities that lie before us,” he said.

The Deputy Governor said the vision of “The Rise of a New Abia” was becoming increasingly evident through efforts to revitalise infrastructure, upgrade public facilities, improve healthcare, strengthen education and human capital development, support businesses and attract investments.

Emetu urges collective effort

Emetu stressed that the transformation of Abia could not be achieved by government alone, urging residents to contribute through unity, peace, responsible citizenship, productivity and patriotism.

He also called on Abians in the diaspora to invest their knowledge, resources and expertise in the development of the state.

The Deputy Governor particularly urged young people to see themselves as active participants in building Abia’s future rather than merely beneficiaries of government programmes.

He encouraged youths to acquire relevant skills, embrace innovation and take advantage of emerging opportunities.

Emetu commended traditional rulers, religious leaders, women, youths, professionals, entrepreneurs, artisans, workers and members of the organised private sector for their contributions to the state’s development.

He also urged public servants to uphold professionalism, integrity, diligence and commitment to service, noting that strong institutions were essential to sustaining development.

‘Best chapters of Abia’s story are still to come’

Speaking on Abia’s identity as “God’s Own State,” Emetu said the state’s progress remained anchored on faith, hard work and divine guidance.

“Abia is proudly known as God's Own State, and our progress is deeply anchored in faith, hard work, and divine guidance. I encourage all Abians to remain steadfast, united, and focused on the tasks ahead,” he said.

He reaffirmed his commitment, alongside Governor Otti, to the administration’s mission of transforming the state and improving the quality of life of its residents.

Emetu prayed for continued peace, stability and prosperity in Abia and called for wisdom, courage and strength for the state’s leaders.

While acknowledging the achievements recorded in the state’s 35 years of existence, he said the ultimate celebration would be the emergence of an Abia where citizens could live, work, invest, raise families and prosper with dignity.

“We honor our past, we cherish the present, but we must be brave enough to forge an even brighter future. The best chapters of Abia's story are still to come. The journey continues, and together, we will build the Abia of our dreams,” he said.

The Deputy Governor again congratulated Governor Otti and all Abians on the anniversary, wishing residents a peaceful and memorable celebration.