Zainab Ali
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has indicated his administration’s readiness to pursue a strategic economic partnership with the State of Delaware in the United States, describing such collaboration as a practical pathway to growth, jobs, and sustainable development.
Governor Otti made this known in Umuahia while receiving a delegation from the Office of the Delaware Governor at the Michael Okpara Auditorium. He explained that Abia’s development philosophy is rooted in building strong systems rather than depending on handouts, noting that partnerships with forward-looking states like Delaware could unlock lasting economic value.
According to the governor, Abians, like many across the South-East, thrive when given the right social infrastructure and an enabling business environment. He stressed that his government’s decision to clear long-standing salary and pension arrears was deliberate and economic in intent.
“When we came in and decided to pay accumulated pension and salary arrears, the goal was simple: to put money back into the hands of the people and stimulate the local economy,” Otti said. “This visit opens the door to meaningful partnership.”
Delaware Governor Bethany Hall-Long, who led the delegation, described the visit as the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship. Drawing from her extensive experience as a legislator, lieutenant governor, and former nursing professor, she said her background would help translate ideas into practical outcomes.
“I am honoured to meet a leader who balances compassion with policy, addressing poverty, security, housing, and job creation,” Hall-Long said. “There are real opportunities for collaboration, including workforce development, manufacturing, and medical supplies. There is so much we can accomplish together.”
She also commended Otti’s leadership style and pace of development, noting that the progress recorded in just two years reflects courage and strong teamwork.
Earlier, Senator Uche Ekwunife, who introduced the Delaware Governor, said the visit was designed to explore partnerships across critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. She noted that Abia’s industrial strength makes its stability significant not only to Nigeria but to the wider African economy.
Top state officials at the meeting included the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Maureen Aghukwa; and other senior government functionaries.