Moghalu praises Otti's work in Abia and speaks on Nigeria's governance issues

Nigerian economist and former Central Bank Deputy Governor Kingsley Moghalu has praised Abia State Governor Alex Otti’s performance, calling it “most impressive.”

“His performance in governance has been most impressive,” Moghalu said in an X post on Friday after visiting Otti at Isiala Ngwa South, Abia State, on Thursday.

“He shows that many Nigerian leaders and politicians miss the point. Competent governance that truly improves citizens’ lives is the best politics,” he added about the Abia governor.

Moghalu shared that their talks focused on Otti’s administration’s achievements and challenges in Abia. They discussed important steps needed for industrialization and economic growth, emphasizing good governance as a foundation.

According to him, the First Lady of Abia State, Chidinma Otti, hosted them for dinner.

“I wish Alex continued success,” Moghalu said, calling the governor “my friend and brother.”

Otti, who is 61 years old, was elected in 2023 under the Labour Party (LP) banner. He is aiming for reelection in 2027.

Otti’s clean-up of Aba, Abia’s commercial center, which was once seen as one of Nigeria’s dirtiest cities, has earned him respect from many, even those in other parties. The LP is the ruling party in Abia, while the APC governs at the national level.

His administration has made it easier to do business in Abia. For example, it now takes about a month to issue Certificates of Occupancy (CofO) for property owners. In 2024, the administration issued 1037 CofOs, the highest in 13 years, from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2024.

“Abia delivers CofO in 30 days. It’s a policy!” said Chaka Chukwumerije, the commissioner for land and housing in Abia.

“There is enhanced transparency, accountability, and a focus on service delivery. We monitor your transaction from start to finish.

“There is greater confidence in the system. If people know they can get their CofO easily without needing a middleman, they are more likely to apply for it.”

Chukwumerije mentioned that the governance system in Abia is automated.

“The governor signs CofO within 24 hours of receiving it. The signing process is automated. We upload it, he signs with his electronic signature, and it comes back to us.

“We have a one-stop customer service. So when you come to the Ministry of Land to process your CofO, you don’t have to go to the bank anymore; the bank is there, the tax office is there, the surveyor’s office is there. You can finish all your transactions in one day.”