Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has continued to draw attention for his message on leadership and civic responsibility, as he insists that Nigeria’s governance challenges can only be solved when capable citizens actively participate in politics rather than remain on the sidelines.

Otti, a former banker who rose to the position of Managing Director before entering politics, has so far been credited with reshaping governance in Abia State. His performance in office has fuelled expectations that he may have a smooth path to re-election in 2027.

He made a strong case for political participation while speaking as Guest Speaker at TheNiche 2026 Annual Lecture held in Lagos on April 23, 2026. According to him, involvement in politics is not a matter of convenience but a civic responsibility.

“The importance of participating in the political process has little to do with convenience or comfort; it is rather a patriotic duty to our fatherland that we can no longer shy away from,” he said.

Otti noted that many citizens remain frustrated by poor leadership but warned that things would only worsen if competent people continue to avoid political engagement.

His journey into politics, however, was not without difficulty. Despite previous attempts, he was unable to secure the governorship twice before finally succeeding in 2023. Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has also publicly stated that he believed Otti won those earlier elections.

The event itself was not political in nature, but Otti’s remarks were widely interpreted as a strong endorsement of his leadership style and governance approach in Abia State. Prominent figures in attendance included former Imo State military governor, General Ike Nwachukwu, and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, both of whom praised Otti’s performance and background in banking.

Igwe Achebe noted that Nigeria suffers more from politics than governance, commending Otti for successfully transitioning from banking into public service, where he previously served as Managing Director of Diamond Bank.

Otti also used the platform to stress the link between politics and economic development, arguing that political decisions directly shape economic outcomes. He urged Nigerians not to allow disillusionment with past leadership failures to discourage their participation in the democratic process.

According to him, continued political apathy would only deepen the country’s challenges.

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, who also spoke at the event, highlighted the importance of professionals, particularly bankers, entering politics. He referenced Otti alongside other banker-turned-governors such as Dauda Lawal of Zamfara and Mohammed Bago of Niger State.

The lecture also featured light-hearted moments, with comedian and master of ceremony Okey Bakassi adding humour to the proceedings. The event drew a wide range of dignitaries, including academics, former governors, and business leaders.

Organisers of TheNiche lecture were commended for consistently bringing together influential voices in national discourse. The event, held at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos, further reinforced Otti’s growing national profile.

As discussions around governance and leadership continue, the lecture ended on a reflective note, with many attendees acknowledging Otti’s call for greater civic engagement and political responsibility among Nigerians.