Otti Declares: We Borrow to Build, Not to Eat - Abia Tops Debt Reduction Chart

.... Governor Celebrates Abia's No.1 Position in Nigeria's Debt Reduction Ranking, Unveils New Infrastructure Plans

Umuahia | All Facts Newspaper | July 2, 2025

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has reiterated his administration's commitment to responsible governance, declaring that the state will only borrow for investment-driven capital projects and never for consumption. He made this declaration on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, during a welcome dinner organized by the Abia State Government in honour of the Abia Global Economic Advisory Council, marking the opening of the 2025 Mid-Year Government Retreat for state appointees.

Addressing an audience of policy experts, technocrats, political appointees, and members of the Economic Council, Governor Otti used the occasion to tackle opposition propaganda which alleged that the state has been on a borrowing spree. Refuting the claims, he presented independent statistics from the Debt Management Office (DMO) showing that Abia recorded the highest reduction in domestic debt among all Nigerian states-a whopping 57.20% decrease in one year.

"Opinions are free, but facts are sacred,ÔÇØ Otti stated. "Some people say we are borrowing-did I borrow from them? We've not borrowed a kobo since I became Governor over two years ago.ÔÇØ

Abia Tops Nigeria's Debt Reduction List - DMO Confirms

According to the DMO's public data, released in June 2025, Abia State reduced its debt profile more than any other state between March 31, 2024 and March 31, 2025. This milestone, Otti noted, is the result of deliberate reforms, fiscal prudence, and anti-waste policies introduced by his administration.

"When we say we've not borrowed, we know what we're talking about. But that doesn't mean we won't borrow. We will borrow when necessary-but only for regenerative investments, not to fund consumption,ÔÇØ Otti emphasized.

He added that borrowing, when strategically done for capital expenditure, is not a weakness but a necessary economic tool for growth-especially in developing states.

Major Water Infrastructure Projects Underway

The Governor also disclosed plans to launch potable water projects in various parts of the state, starting from CKC axis in Aba and multiple locations in Umuahia. These efforts are part of his administration's goal to return public tap water to homes across the state-an amenity that has been absent for decades.

"We want to get to the point where you open your tap and clean water flows. In a few weeks, we'll flag off the Aba water project. Others in Umuahia and elsewhere will follow,ÔÇØ he said.

Canada-Based Expert Now Heads Abia's Project Bureau

In a bold move to ensure the quality and integrity of projects, Governor Otti announced the creation of the Project Implementation Bureau, to be led by Mr. Onyinye Nwosu, an Abia-born expert who left his prestigious job at General Electric, Canada, to serve his state.

This bureau, Otti noted, is tasked with driving large-scale infrastructure development across Abia-ensuring world-class delivery standards.

Advisory Council Praised as Game-Changer

Speaking at the event, Prof. Ms. Arunma Oteh, Co-Chair of the Abia Global Economic Advisory Council, hailed the council's impact on Abia's economic trajectory, stating:

"Abia is now number one-not just in name but in performance. It's a privilege to serve and to witness this transformation.ÔÇØ

Also in attendance were members of the 20-man Council, including renowned professionals like Mrs. Ifueko Okauru, Mr. Victor Onyenkpa, Dr. Olugbenga Adesida, Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, and Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu.

Leadership That Works - Abia's New Economic Direction

Governor Otti concluded the dinner by reminding Abians that his government is focused on long-term development, not handouts or stomach infrastructure.

"We didn't come to share money. Abians are not beggars. We're a proud, hardworking people. What we need is enabling environment-good roads, clean water, functioning systems.ÔÇØ

He reaffirmed that the advisory council's efforts, combined with the commitment of his administration, will continue to drive inclusive growth and set Abia on the path of lasting prosperity.