Abia Defrays ₦72bn Debt in One Year Without New Borrowing, Says Governor Otti
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has revealed that his administration has successfully repaid ₦72 billion out of the ₦138 billion debt inherited from previous governments, achieving this within a year of taking office without incurring new debt.
Speaking during a state-wide broadcast on the eve of International Workers’ Day, Governor Otti said the outstanding debt balance now stands at ₦66 billion, based on data from the Debt Management Office (DMO) as of December 2024.
“We inherited a debt burden of ₦138 billion, but through fiscal discipline, strategic negotiations, and a commitment to transparency, we have reduced this to ₦66 billion.
“What’s important is that we have not borrowed a single kobo since assuming office,”Otti stated.
He noted, however, that the official figures may not reflect the full extent of the state’s liabilities, including unpaid salaries, pensions, and contractor arrears left by past administrations.
Governor Otti highlighted a range of reforms and initiatives under his administration aimed at driving sustainable development across key sectors.
The state has launched “Project Ekwueme,” targeting the construction and renovation of 200 primary healthcare centers. The World Bank is supporting an additional 67 centers. As of April, 103 facilities are in various stages of completion. In addition, the government plans to inaugurate the Abia Medical City a $1.3 billion investment expected to cut down Nigeria’s annual $2 billion medical tourism spend and retain at least 10% of that within the country.
Otti reaffirmed his commitment to free and compulsory basic education, which has boosted school enrollment to over 700,000 children statewide.
To support the growing demand, the state has approved the recruitment of 9,000 new teachers to improve learning outcomes.
The long-abandoned Port Harcourt Road in Aba, a major economic route, is nearing completion and will be commissioned on May 29. The road, once impassable, is expected to revive commercial activities and reduce congestion in the city.
As his administration marks one year in office, Governor Otti reiterated his commitment to prudent financial management and inclusive development, emphasizing that Abia is on a new trajectory focused on service delivery, accountability, and economic revival.
“Our mission is clear to rebuild Abia and place her on a firm path of prosperity. We are not distracted, and we are not backing down,” he declared.
