Governor Alex Otti of Abia has called on indigenes of the state to invest at home, assuring that his government is creating a conducive environment for their enterprise to flourish.
Otti conveyed this message during a grand civic reception organized by the Abia State Government, held in honor of Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu at the International Conference Centre Umuahia.
Encouraging local investment, Otti emphasized the readiness of Abia for business, highlighting incoming foreign investors while stressing his inclination toward local initiatives over extensive travels in search of foreign investments.
“If you have your investment sited somewhere else, this is the time to bring them down to Abia State. Abia is open for business, foreign investors are coming, and we don’t even need to travel, I’m sure you know that I hardly travel,” he told the gathering.
“Gone are the days when leaders would take a flight to relocate abroad and tell you they are looking for foreign investments. My message to all of us is that we must fix our home and when we fix our home, other people will come and invest.”
Regarding the 2024 budget, Otti assured the availability of the required funds, dispelling doubts about its financing. He commended the support from members of the National and State House Assemblies and the people of Abia, promising brighter prospects in the coming year.
He praised Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, acknowledging his outstanding character and contributions to the state’s security and welfare, transcending political affiliations.
In response, Kalu expressed gratitude for Otti’s reception, recognizing the governor’s commitment to Abia’s development. He highlighted the need for unity irrespective of political differences, endorsing Otti as a dedicated partner in the state’s progress.
The event, graced by members of the National Assembly, the Abia State House of Assembly, commissioners, mayors, traditional rulers, and dignitaries, included the conferment of the chieftaincy title of Enyi Abia on Kalu by the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers.