The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has congratulated the government and people of Abia State on the 35th anniversary of the state.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State, commended the people and successive administrations for sustaining peace, strengthening security and promoting democratic governance.
He said Abia had remained largely peaceful and secure, describing peace and security as critical foundations for development, economic growth and investment.
The Deputy Speaker also commended successive administrations for their efforts to develop the state, stressing that “the progress recorded so far was a result of the collective contributions of past and present leaders.”
Kalu applauded the administration of Governor Alex Otti for prioritising security and good governance, including the establishment of an Air Force office in Umuahia, the state capital.
He also commended the state government for promoting bipartisan political cooperation, citing the approval of Certificates of Occupancy for federal projects and initiatives, including the Industrial Court, Renewed Hope Housing Projects and newly approved federal educational institutions in the state.
He said the projects, alongside other developments expected in the state, would attract investment, create jobs and expand infrastructure, stressing that “Abia stood to benefit from continued cooperation between the federal and state governments”.
Kalu also commended ongoing efforts to pay pensions and gratuities owed to workers, describing the obligation as a responsibility government must continue to uphold in recognition of the contributions of those who served the state.
“Abia at 35 is a story of resilience and progress. I commend the governments, present and previous administrations, for their efforts aimed at developing our dear state, and I urge us to sustain the momentum of peace, unity and service delivery,” he said.
Kalu wished the people of Abia a successful celebration of the state’s 35th anniversary.
Abia State was created from the old Imo State on August 27, 1991, by the administration of former military Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.
