My Successor in 2031 Will Be Better Than Me, Says Otti
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has expressed confidence that his successor in 2031 will surpass his
own achievements, as he continues efforts to lay what he described as a “solid foundation” for the
state’s development.
The governor made the remarks on Sunday, January 18, 2026 during a ground reception service
organised in his honour by the Assemblies of God Church, Okaiuga–Nkwoegwu in Umuahia North Local
Government Area.
Addressing worshippers, Otti said his administration is still in the early stages and that “the time for the
aggressive development of Abia State is now.”
He added that the curse that had previously hindered progress in the state has been broken and that his
government’s ongoing initiatives will create opportunities for future leaders.
“We have just started. We are not three years old yet. So you can imagine what will happen by the time
we are done in 2031,” Otti said. “And whoever is going to succeed me will be better than me. So when
people think we are going to go back to them, they must be dreaming. We’ve moved.”
Citing his belief in divine guidance, the governor referenced Psalms 62:11, saying that while people can
plan their efforts, it is ultimately God’s timing that determines success.
During the event, church leaders also made several requests of the governor, including the donation of a
bus for evangelism and the allocation of land for a prayer camp.
Otti confirmed that a Hummer bus, courtesy of Prince Dr. Arthur Eze, would be delivered later in the
week and directed his Chief of Staff to work with the church leadership on securing land for the prayer
village.
The event was attended by key state officials, including the governor’s wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, the
member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Hon. Obi Aguocha, the Deputy Speaker
of the Abia State House of Assembly, and the Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD, among others.
Otti’s comments reflect his broader focus on institutional development and governance reforms, as he
seeks to strengthen Abia State’s infrastructure, economy and public services ahead of the completion of
his tenure.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
