Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, on Tuesday described women in the state as the backbone of development, noting their invaluable role in shaping the Abia society.
The governor made this remark at the 2025 edition of the Abia Women Delegates Conference, where he praised their decades-long contributions.
“Over the past 34 years, despite challenges posed by limited resources and human shortcomings, Abia women have stood out as strong pillars of development, giving of themselves and their resources in the collective quest to build a prosperous and peaceful state,” Otti said.
He further commended their influence across all sectors:
“Through your wise counsel, encouragement, and active participation in the social, economic, and political life of our communities, you have not only enriched this state but also brought out the best in us all.”
Governor Otti also highlighted the resilience of women in the face of adversity.
“Their exploits continue to inspire generations, even in the midst of hardship, colonial oppression, war, cultural barriers, and social limitations. From the selfless village school teachers and petty traders in our markets to the mothers who make sacrifices for the education and wellbeing of their children, we see you, we honor you, and we celebrate you. The modest gains we have recorded in governance over the past 24 months would not have been possible without the courage and support of our mothers, who stood firm during the difficult years leading to 2023, refusing to give up until victory was won.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to women’s empowerment, Otti disclosed:
“Recently, we set aside ₦2 billion to support community-based cooperative societies, with a directive that at least 60% of the beneficiaries must be women, particularly those in agriculture. We are equally prioritizing women in our ICT, vocational, and agricultural training programs. The goal is to raise a critical mass of women who are empowered to create value for themselves, their families, and their communities. Our society cannot survive if mothers fail to resist social vices that endanger healthy growth and development.”
In her remarks, the governor’s wife, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, who delivered a goodwill message at the event—the third since the current administration assumed office—called for gender inclusiveness in governance.
Acknowledging calls for a “Men’s August Meeting,” the First Lady challenged members of the State House of Assembly to ensure women’s representation.
“Women must be guaranteed 50% of all elected and appointed positions,” she said.
Mrs. Otti also announced the financial empowerment of 340 women—20 from each of the 17 local government areas—targeted at supporting their businesses, farms, and enterprises.
“These women will be able to grow their trades and put food on the table, restoring dignity to their homes. When women thrive, families flourish, communities prosper, and societies move forward. There is no limit to what Abia women can achieve.
“As we rise in business and leadership, we must also strengthen the home front—building families rooted in love, dignity, and mutual support. The family is the foundation of our state’s prosperity. As First Lady, I renew my commitment to championing women-focused initiatives: expanding skills acquisition, promoting girls’ education, supporting farmers, and caring for widows, the elderly, people with disabilities, survivors of gender-based violence, and vulnerable children,” she affirmed.
