Abia State Governor Alex Otti has revealed that his administration inherited a ₦138bn debt burden, out of which ₦72bn has been repaid, leaving a balance of ₦66bn.
The governor made this announcement during the April edition of “Alex Otti Speaks to Abians” on Wednesday, citing figures from the Debt Management Office.
Otti announced the state’s plan to invest $1.3bn in a proposed Abia Medical City to enhance healthcare and reduce medical tourism expenses.
President Bola Tinubu is scheduled to visit Abia on May 29, 2025, to commission Port Harcourt Road in Aba, which is set to be completed next week. During his visit, Tinubu will also flag off construction for the medical city project.
Education, Healthcare, and Security Efforts
The governor reported that 7,000 pupils are currently benefiting from Abia’s free education policy, with 9,000 teachers undergoing phased training. The government is emphasizing mathematics, engineering, and science to prepare students for a technology-driven future.
On healthcare, Otti said primary health centres across the state will undergo major upgrades as part of the “New Abia” initiative. Additionally, the government plans to recruit 777 new healthcare workers to strengthen medical services.
Security remains a top priority. Otti urged residents to reject insecurity and praised state security agencies, stating, “Some people who tested our will didn’t find it easy.”
Agricultural Boost and Anti-Grazing Law
The state is partnering with Israeli firms to expand rice production and introduce greenhouse farming to improve maize and vegetable yields.
On the anti-grazing law, the governor assured residents that Abia has moved beyond farms being destroyed by cattle, saying the government will address the matter appropriately.
Otti concluded by thanking lawmakers for their continued support, noting that many members of the State House of Assembly recently defected from their former political parties.
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