Nigerian economist and former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Kingsley Moghalu, has commended Abia State Governor Alex Otti for what he described as an outstanding performance in office.

Moghalu made the remarks in a post on X on Friday following a visit to the governor in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State on Thursday.

According to him, Otti’s approach to leadership demonstrates a principle many Nigerian politicians have failed to embrace—that effective governance that positively impacts the lives of citizens remains the most powerful form of politics.

“His performance in governance has been most impressive,” Moghalu stated, adding that the governor’s achievements reflect the value of competent leadership.

He explained that their discussions centred on the progress recorded by the Otti administration, as well as the challenges involved in creating the right conditions for industrialisation, inclusive economic growth, and sustainable development in the state.

Moghalu also disclosed that the meeting was followed by a dinner hosted by the First Lady of Abia State, Chidinma Otti.

Describing the governor as “my friend and brother,” the former presidential candidate wished Otti continued success in office.

Governor Otti, who was elected under the Labour Party (LP) platform in 2023, is expected to seek a second term in the 2027 governorship election.

His administration has gained attention for significant improvements in infrastructure and urban renewal, particularly in Aba, the state's commercial centre, which was once widely regarded as one of the dirtiest cities in the country.

The governor’s road construction projects and other development initiatives have earned him support from many residents and observers, including individuals across political divides. While the Labour Party controls Abia State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains the ruling party at the federal level.

The administration has also introduced reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business in the state.

One notable example is the processing of Certificates of Occupancy (CofO), which now takes approximately 30 days. In 2024 alone, the government issued 1,037 Certificates of Occupancy—the highest number recorded within a single year since 2012.

Speaking on the reforms, Abia State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Chaka Chukwumerije, said the process has become more transparent, efficient, and accessible.

“Abia delivers CofO in 30 days. It’s a policy,” he said.

He noted that every application is tracked from submission to completion, eliminating unnecessary bottlenecks and reducing dependence on intermediaries.

“There is enhanced transparency, accountability, and focus on service delivery. Your transaction is monitored from the time it comes in until it goes out.

“There is greater confidence in the system. If people know that they can get their CofO seamlessly without going through any middleman, it encourages them to apply for their CofO,” he added.

Chukwumerije further explained that the state’s land administration system has been largely automated, allowing the governor to approve documents electronically.

“The governor signs CofO within 24 hours of being sent to him. The governor’s signing process is automated—we upload it, he signs through his electronic signature, and it gets back to us,” he said.

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

Beyond Moghalu, several prominent Nigerians have publicly praised Otti’s leadership and governance style.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, remarked in October last year that he had observed noticeable improvements in governance across the state compared to previous administrations.

Similarly, human rights lawyer Chidi Odinkalu recently said the changes taking place in Abia have restored hope among residents, noting that many people now feel more optimistic about the state's future.