Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s  commitment to securing a prosperous future for Abia children through sustained investment in education, infrastructure, child protection and inclusive development.

Governor Otti made the declaration during the 2026 Children’s Day Celebration held at the Umuahia Township Stadium, where thousands of children, teachers, parents and dignitaries gathered for the colourful event organised by the Abia State Government as part of activities marking the administration’s third anniversary in office.

Delivering an inspiring address titled “A Responsibility to Dream,” Governor Otti described children as the greatest assets of society and the clearest representation of the future, stressing that government must consistently prioritise their welfare and development.

According to him, every policy direction, investment decision and infrastructure project undertaken by his administration over the last three years has been deliberately designed to secure a better future for the next generation.

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“We are investing generously in education because of the significant role it will play in shaping the future you shall inherit. No price, and I repeat, no price is too steep to pay because our children are our greatest assets,” Governor Otti declared.

The Governor disclosed that his administration has consistently allocated 20 per cent of the state’s annual budget to education, while assuming full responsibility for basic public school education across Abia State. He further revealed that the recruitment of over 5,000 teachers was aimed at improving learning standards and positioning Abia students to compete favourably in an increasingly global environment.

“In Abia, education is our biggest industry and vehicle to a prosperous future,” he stated, adding that his administration remains intentional about creating opportunities that would enable children to thrive academically, socially and economically.

Governor Otti also highlighted ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the three senatorial zones, noting that improved infrastructure remains essential in creating a supportive environment for learning and youth development.

The Governor charged children to remain disciplined, hardworking and focused on their education, while urging parents, teachers and guardians to continue playing active roles in nurturing responsible and morally upright citizens.

He equally advocated greater inclusion for children living with disabilities, insisting that no child should be discriminated against or denied opportunities because of physical challenges.

“Let us not marginalise them. They should be given equal opportunities to participate and perform. They may be physically challenged, but they are just like us,” Governor Otti stated while calling for greater inclusion of children from schools for the deaf and blind.

Governor Otti commended the First Lady of Abia State, Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, and her team for organising the memorable celebration, which featured colourful match-pasts, cultural displays, exhibitions, academic presentations and performances by pupils and students from across the state.

Earlier in her address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Mrs. Maureen Aghukwa, described children as the pride of families, the hope of society and the leaders of tomorrow, emphasising that the celebration served as a reminder of society’s collective responsibility to nurture and protect every child.

She noted that the Otti-led administration has consistently demonstrated genuine concern for the welfare of children and families through strategic investments in education, healthcare, child protection and opportunities for growth.

“Today’s celebration is not only a time for fun and entertainment, but also a moment to reaffirm our collective commitment to raising children in an environment of love, discipline, security and hope,” Aghukwa said.

She commended Governor Alex Otti for his visionary leadership and applauded the First Lady, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, for her passion and commitment to the wellbeing of children in Abia State.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, said the Children’s Day celebration was beyond festivities, describing it as a reaffirmation of the collective duty to raise children in an atmosphere of love, discipline and security.

He noted that ongoing reforms in the education sector are strategically positioning Abia students to compete favourably on the global stage and encouraged pupils to take advantage of the improved learning environment.

The event attracted high-profile dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu; Senator Darlington Nwokocha; members of the National and State Assemblies; the Secretary to the State Government; Commissioners; traditional rulers; religious leaders; and other stakeholders, who joined thousands of children in celebrating the day.

The 2026 Children’s Day celebration ended on a colourful and inspiring note, reinforcing the Otti administration’s resolve to build a future where every Abia child is empowered to dream, grow and succeed.