CIBN Commends Abia Governor Otti for 10% GDP Growth and Poverty Reduction
The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has commended Abia State Governor Alex Otti for the remarkable economic progress achieved under his leadership.
The commendation came during a courtesy visit on Thursday, when Prof. Pius Olarenwaju, President and Chairman of the CIBN, led members of the institute to meet with Governor Otti at his office.
Prof. Olarenwaju highlighted key milestones, including a 10 percent increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), an eight percent reduction in poverty, the attraction of significant investments, and the creation of over 10,000 jobs.
“You have achieved, within this short time, notable economic progress, including a 10 percent GDP increase, an eight percent poverty reduction, significant investments, and over 10,000 new jobs. Seeing this firsthand is even more impressive than reading about it in newspapers,” he said.
The CIBN chief also praised the governor for improvements in the social sector, including enhanced healthcare delivery, reduced mortality rates, the introduction of health insurance, and upgraded education infrastructure through free education policies. He also acknowledged developments in road networks and other ongoing projects, calling them evidence of purposeful governance.
Prof. Olarenwaju commended Abia’s Operation Crush initiative, noting its positive impact on security, youth confidence, and economic activity. He also highlighted Governor Otti’s contributions to the banking and finance profession, describing him as a goodwill ambassador of the institute. Plans were disclosed for a CIBN event later in the year to honour outstanding former bank executives for their industry impact.
Governor Otti reaffirmed his commitment to sustainable development and strengthening collaboration with CIBN. He highlighted his administration’s achievements, including job creation, economic growth, poverty reduction, free compulsory education, and improved healthcare delivery. The governor said the free education policy had led to more than a 100 percent increase in school enrolment, with over 5,394 teachers recruited and an additional 4,000 in the hiring process.
Otti also welcomed CIBN’s financial literacy and inclusion programmes, stressing their importance in improving investment knowledge and economic empowerment for citizens. He expressed interest in adopting the institute’s updated curriculum in state-owned tertiary institutions and expanding collaboration through regional conferences and public programs.
The delegation included Abia State’s Commissioner for Finance, Uwaoma, Commissioner for Agriculture, Cliff Agbaeze, the Accountant-General, Mrs. Njum Uma-Onyemenam, FCA, and other senior government officials.
