Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has commended members of the Renewed Hope Media Team for their invaluable contributions to national development through responsible journalism, strategic communication, and the promotion of good governance.

Governor Otti gave the commendation during a state banquet organised in honour of the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Chief Bayo Onanuga; the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Chief Sunday Akin Dare; and other distinguished media professionals who were on a media tour of Abia State.

The banquet, held at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, formed part of activities marking the team's visit to the state.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, Governor Otti described the visit as a strong testament to the vital role of the media in shaping public opinion, promoting transparency, ensuring accountability, and strengthening democratic institutions.

He praised the visiting media executives for their active and informed participation in advancing national development and urged them to continue upholding the highest standards of professionalism, objectivity, fairness, and accuracy in the discharge of their responsibilities.

The Governor also underscored the need to mentor and nurture the next generation of journalists, stressing that Nigeria requires media practitioners who combine professional competence with integrity, ethical values, and a deep commitment to public trust.

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Chief Bayo Onanuga, noted that the Federal Government and the Abia State Government are working collaboratively to improve the lives of Nigerians. He commended Governor Otti for the ongoing infrastructural transformation across Abia State and expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to the media delegation.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, explained that the National Media Tour was conceived to showcase key development projects being implemented under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. According to him, the initiative promotes transparency and accountability while enabling Nigerians to objectively assess the impact of government policies and programmes.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, assured the visiting team that the developmental strides witnessed across the state reflect Governor Otti’s unwavering commitment to delivering quality infrastructure and improved living standards for the people of Abia. He further pledged the state's continued hospitality throughout the team's stay.

The event featured colourful cultural displays by traditional dance troupes, providing entertainment and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Abia State.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; the Abia State Chairman of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Azubuike; members of the media delegation, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other notable stakeholders.