Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of Abians through sustained investments in healthcare and other social programmes.
Governor Otti made the assurance on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA), who are in the state for their 48th Annual Conference and National Elections.
Addressing the delegation at the Government House, Umuahia, the Governor said:
“The average Nigerian is struggling. Whatever we can do to make life more meaningful and easier for them, this government will support you in doing that. The major point is that everything the government does should be about the welfare of the people. When citizens are complaining, the government must reassess its vision.”
He emphasized that welfare encompasses both security and healthcare, stressing that “if you’re not secure or healthy, then welfare is absent.”
Governor Otti lauded the NOA for its longstanding impact in Abia and commended the choice of the conference theme, “Optometry in a Changing World,” describing it as timely and relevant. He pledged continued support to the association and assured them of a comfortable stay in the state.
Highlighting his administration’s progress in the healthcare sector, Governor Otti cited the establishment of the Abia State Eyecare Management Bureau — the first of its kind in the country. According to him, the Bureau has conducted free eye screenings, treatments, and surgeries for thousands of residents across all 17 Local Government Areas.
Responding to the association’s request for support on the decentralization of the National Vision Centre, Governor Otti expressed readiness to engage with the bill currently at the National Assembly. He also encouraged the delegates to explore Aba, the state’s commercial hub, during their stay.
Earlier, NOA President Dr. Chimezirim Anderson acknowledged the Governor’s commitment to healthcare reforms and praised the state’s transformation under his leadership.
“Abians got what they ordered in Governor Otti,” he remarked, expressing gratitude for appointing optometrists to key positions, including Dr. Maureen Aghukwa as Commissioner for Women Affairs, and Dr. Betty Emeka-Obasi as Administrator of the Eyecare Management Bureau.
Dr. Anderson revealed that Abia now has the highest number of vision centres in Nigeria, and requested the Governor’s support in securing a legislative framework for the decentralization of vision care services. He also appealed for a parcel of land to establish a regional office in the state.
In her vote of thanks, Dr. Betty Emeka-Obasi expressed appreciation to the NOA for choosing Abia as its national conference venue, attributing the decision to Governor Otti’s investment-friendly environment.
“As His Excellency always says, capital is like a woman — it goes where it is attracted,” she remarked, noting the economic impact of the conference, which has filled hotels across Umuahia.
The event was attended by top government officials including Dr. Maureen Aghukwa and Dr. Betty Emeka-Obasi, among others.
— Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State
July 23, 2025
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