Chinazaekpere Chinwendu, Reporter
Umuahia, Abia State |November 14, 2025 —
The Member representing Umuahia North (Ohuhu) State Constituency in the Abia House of Assembly, Hon. Barr. Anderson Kelechi Akaliro, has praised Gov Alex Otti for what he described as an unprecedented commitment to quality healthcare, responsible governance, and sustainable development.
Akaliro’s commendation follows Abia State’s emergence as the number one state in Nigeria’s Health Preparedness Index (HPI) 2025, a position widely celebrated across the nation.
The recently released report by SBM Intelligence revealed that Abia State recorded the highest preparedness score of 26.85, outperforming all other states in readiness for health emergencies. The report attributes Abia’s leading position to its outstanding per capita health spending of ₦22,926, its strong 14.8 percent budget allocation to healthcare, and one of the country’s highest Human Development Index (HDI) scores at 0.674.
Reacting to the milestone, Hon. Akaliro said Abia’s top ranking was neither accidental nor surprising, noting that Otti’s methodical and transparent style of leadership has consistently yielded measurable results.
“What we are witnessing today is the fruit of deliberate planning, disciplined execution, and sincere leadership,” Akaliro said.
“Gov Alex Otti has restored integrity and efficiency to public administration. This number one ranking is a validation of his commitment to the people. It shows that when leaders place citizens at the center of governance, progress becomes inevitable.”
The lawmaker highlighted the governor’s approval for the recruitment of 33 new medical consultants as another indicator of the administration’s seriousness in strengthening the health sector. According to him, the decision will significantly boost the quality of medical services available to residents across Abia’s health facilities.
Hon. Akaliro also commended the government’s multi-sectoral reforms, including the governor’s approval for the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) to deploy 100 new waste bins across the state, and the ongoing 48 direct labour projects executed by the Ministry of Works. He said these efforts demonstrate an administration working with purpose and precision.
“From healthcare to sanitation and infrastructure, our Dr Alex Otti is building a smarter, cleaner, and more resilient Abia,” he noted.
“These reforms speak loudly to anyone who cares about development. They show that our governor is not merely occupying office; he is working round the clock to deliver on his promises.”
Akaliro expressed confidence that Abia’s top ranking would attract national and international partnerships that would further strengthen the state’s development trajectory.
“This global recognition places Abia on the map as a state to watch,” Akaliro remarked.
“Development partners naturally gravitate toward success stories, and Abia is now one of them. The Otti administration has proven that transformation is possible when leadership is visionary and focused.”
He assured that the Abia State House of Assembly remains committed to supporting policies that enhance the wellbeing of the people.
“As legislators, we will continue to back policies that safeguard public health and promote sustainable growth,” Akaliro said.
“Gov Otti’s achievements inspire us to do more. Abia is rising, and together we will consolidate this progress for future generations.”
As Abia continues to gain national attention for its reforms, observers say the state’s success under Governor Alex Otti offers a template for effective subnational governance, proving that development is achievable when leadership prioritizes accountability, strategic investment, and the welfare of citizens.
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