Tinubu Commissions Michael Okpara Auditorium, Seven Aba Roads

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to emulate the visionary leadership and politics of integration championed by the late Premier of the Eastern Region, Dr. Michael Okpara, as he commissioned the newly remodelled Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia and seven rehabilitated roads in Aba, Abia State.

Speaking through the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, who represented him at the twin ceremonies on Friday, President Tinubu described the reconstruction of the iconic auditorium as a “miracle of transformation,” applauding Governor Alex Otti for his bold commitment to infrastructural renewal across Abia State.

“I lived and worked here in Umuahia as a young engineer, and I know how this route once was. But today, I saw a miracle taking place. First, I thought that was a miracle, but as I crossed further, I saw even more wondrous infrastructure. Whether federal or state, projects like these matter because they touch the lives of the people,” Umahi said, conveying the President’s admiration.

 

The President emphasized that Dr. Michael Okpara’s legacy should serve as a guiding light for contemporary leaders.

“I have deep respect for His Excellency, the late Dr. Michael Okpara. He played politics of integration and brought the people of the Southeast to the centre. I urge you to emulate his style of leadership. That is how our nation can grow stronger, united, and prosperous,” President Tinubu stated.

President Tinubu, who sent his goodwill to Abians, assured that he would personally visit the state in December. He commended Governor Otti for prioritizing projects that directly impact lives, noting that the Federal Government would continue to support state governments committed to transformative governance.

In Aba, the President’s representative also inaugurated the reconstructed Port Harcourt Road and six other strategic roads, projects that have restored mobility and revitalized business activities in the commercial city.

Governor Otti, in his remarks, recalled the deplorable condition of the Michael Okpara Auditorium before its facelift in 2023, expressing joy that it has been reborn into a structure of pride. He thanked President Tinubu for his fatherly support, particularly the timely release of funds for critical federal projects in Abia.

“This is the Michael Okpara Auditorium that was left in a dilapidated state. Today, it stands as an edifice worthy of honouring the great leader whose name it bears,” Otti said.

Governor Otti further reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to restore dignity and order to public infrastructure, stressing that Abia’s transformation story is only just beginning.

In his earlier comments, President Tinubu, represented by Umahi, lauded Otti’s leadership style, likening it to that of the late Dr. Okpara, who, during his time as Premier, opened up the Southeast for greater economic opportunities.

“Governor Otti, I commend you highly. Projects—whether Federal or State—the important thing is to touch the lives of our people. We are very happy with what the Governor is doing in Abia. Whether in APC, Labour Party, PDP, or any other political leaning, what matters most is good governance that benefits the people,” he noted.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, assuring that the Southeast would continue to be integrated into national development and political participation.

The commissioning of the Michael Okpara Auditorium and seven Aba roads stands as a landmark in Governor Alex Otti’s urban renewal and economic revitalization agenda, drawing strong presidential endorsement and rekindling pride in Abia’s infrastructural rebirth.