Abia State Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reiterated that true leadership is about stewardship and service to the people, not an avenue for acquiring wealth.
Governor Otti made this assertion during the 35th Anniversary Celebration of St. Peter’s Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Umungasi Parish, Aba, where he joined the congregation in worship and thanksgiving.
Speaking to the jubilant worshippers, the Governor emphasized that leadership is a responsibility borne out of sacrifice and preparedness.
“Leadership is about service and the welfare of the people. Too often, some mistake it for an opportunity to acquire wealth. I have always insisted—and will continue to insist—that anyone aspiring to lead must have something tangible to offer. You can’t give what you don’t have. Leadership is not a job placement; it is stewardship. If your goals are different, then leadership is not for you,” Otti declared.
The Governor urged the Church and citizens to play their part in safeguarding good governance, warning against complacency that could jeopardize progress already made in the State.
“We cannot afford to sleep and return to Egypt. It is not about me but about what happens after me. Leadership must be protected so that Abia will continue to move from glory to glory,” he said, drawing resounding applause from the congregation.
On the challenges faced by the Church over the allocation of lands for their schools during the previous administration, Governor Otti promised to review the matter and ensure justice. He directed his Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties to engage the Church leadership and submit a report within two weeks.
While appreciating the Church for their support, the Governor expressed gratitude for their prayers and goodwill.
“Without you—the people of God—maybe we would not be here today. God used you, and you allowed Him to use you. God’s time is always the best. I assure you, greater dividends of democracy are on the way,” he assured.
Earlier in his sermon, the Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, His Eminence Ekpenyong Akpanika, Ph.D, stressed that Christianity is a call to service. He reminded the congregation that greatness is not measured by possessions but by service to God and humanity.
“What immortalizes a man is what he does for others. Governor Otti has shown true leadership through his service to the people,” Dr. Akpanika noted.
The Church leadership thanked the Governor for honoring their anniversary celebration despite his busy schedule. They offered prayers for him, his entourage, and the State before joining him in cutting the anniversary cake.
Governor Otti was accompanied by the Acting Chairman of the Labour Party in Abia State, Sir Emmanuel Nwaeze Oti; Member representing Aba Central Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Ucheonye Stephen Akachukwu; Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba; Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Hon. Chibueze Nwokocha; Senior Special Assistants Dr. Chidozie George (Special Duties) and Dr. Obioma Nwaogbe (Transport); as well as the Mayors of Aba North and Aba South, Hon. Timothy Iheke and Hon. Obialor Anyanwu, among other top government functionaries.
