The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, has congratulated Governor Alex Otti and the people of Abia State, both at home and abroad, as the state marks its 35th anniversary.

In a message marking the anniversary on Thursday, Emetu described Abia’s 35-year journey as one characterised by resilience, sacrifice, creativity, innovation and the determination of its people to overcome challenges.

Abia State was created on August 27, 1991, and the Deputy Governor noted that the state had, over the years, produced accomplished citizens across business, academia, public service, medicine, engineering, technology, agriculture, manufacturing and other sectors.

He said the anniversary provided an opportunity not only to celebrate the state’s achievements but also to reflect on the responsibility of the present generation to build a stronger, more prosperous and sustainable Abia for the future.

Emetu said the state had entered a new phase of deliberate development, with renewed attention to infrastructure, institutional strengthening, public service delivery, economic revitalisation and citizens’ welfare.

He attributed the ongoing transformation to what he described as the visionary, disciplined and results-oriented leadership of Governor Alex Otti.

“Celebrating thirty-five years in the life of our beloved state is a momentous occasion that deserves recognition. Today, we are not just reflecting on our journey so far; we are looking ahead with fresh confidence and immense pride in the opportunities that lie before us.

“Thanks to the visionary, disciplined, and purposeful leadership of my principal, Governor Alex Otti, we are turning our governance goals into real actions, always keeping the welfare and prosperity of everyday Abians at the core of our mission,” he said.

The Deputy Governor said the vision of “The Rise of a New Abia” was becoming increasingly evident through investments in infrastructure, public facilities, healthcare, education, human capital development, business and investment.

He, however, stressed that the transformation of Abia could not be achieved by government alone, urging citizens to contribute through unity, peace, responsible citizenship, productivity and patriotism.

Emetu also called on Abians in the diaspora to contribute their knowledge, resources and expertise to the development of the state.

He particularly urged young people to see themselves as active participants in building Abia’s future rather than merely beneficiaries of government programmes.

The Deputy Governor encouraged youths to acquire relevant skills, embrace innovation and take advantage of emerging opportunities.

He also commended traditional rulers, religious leaders, women, youths, professionals, entrepreneurs, artisans, workers and members of the organised private sector for their contributions to the state’s development.

Emetu urged public servants to uphold professionalism, integrity, diligence and commitment to service, stressing that strong institutions were essential to sustaining development.

Reflecting on Abia’s identity as “God’s Own State,” he called on residents to remain united and committed to the state’s development.

“Abia is proudly known as God's Own State, and our progress is deeply anchored in faith, hard work, and divine guidance. I encourage all Abians to remain steadfast, united, and focused on the tasks ahead.

“Let’s join forces to create a prosperous, peaceful, and thriving Abia that will shine as a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come,” he said.

Emetu reaffirmed his commitment to working alongside Governor Otti to advance the administration’s development agenda and improve the quality of life of residents.

He also prayed for continued peace, stability and prosperity in Abia, asking God to grant the state’s leaders wisdom, courage and strength to discharge their responsibilities with humility and dedication.

The Deputy Governor said the greatest measure of the state’s anniversary celebration would ultimately be the emergence of an Abia where citizens have opportunities to live, work, invest, raise families and thrive with dignity.

“We honor our past, we cherish the present, but we must be brave enough to forge an even brighter future. The best chapters of Abia's story are still to come. The journey continues, and together, we will build the Abia of our dreams,” he said.

Emetu concluded by congratulating Governor Otti and all Abians on the 35th anniversary of the state’s creation, wishing residents a peaceful, joyful and memorable celebration.