GOV OTTI RECEIVES THE PRESIDENT GENERAL OF THE CHARISMATIC BISHOPS CONFERENCE OF NIGERIA, ARCHBISHOP KAWAS.

The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, on Wednesday, received in audience, the President General of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, His Eminence, Archbishop Prof Leonard Bature Kawas who is on a 3-day Ecclesiastical visit to Abia State.

Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, the Governor in his speech, painted a vivid picture of Abia’s past, calling it “a period of stone age and the darkest of all darkness.” He emphasized that the current administration arrived at a crucial time when transformation was desperately needed. He also recognized the vital role that clerics and religious leaders played in rallying prayers, intercession, and moral support during the 2023 elections, highlighting how their connection with the community significantly contributed to the current government’s success.

“We know what Abians yearn for. The church stood with us, religious leaders came out boldly to stake their faith in this mandate, and today we are grateful. We urge you to continue to sustain your prayers and unwavering support for this government, as we remain committed to delivering the dividends of democracy to our people,” the Governor said.

The Governor described the Church, as a critical stakeholder in nation -building, and assured them that his administration will not relent in working tirelessly for the progress of the state, guided by the principles of justice, equity, and service to humanity. He appreciated their words of encouragement and commendation on the modest efforts of the current administration to reposition Abia State on the path of sustainable growth and development.

Speaking during the visit, Archbishop Kawas extolled the visionary leadership of Governor Alex Otti, describing him as a trailblazer who has redefined governance in Abia State. He noted that within a short period, the Otti administration has demonstrated uncommon courage and commitment in every sector.

We wish to commend His Excellency the Governor for the giant strides taken and conscious efforts made to transform all sectors of the state. The untiring efforts of your government in attracting investors and repositioning Abia as a model of good governance are highly remarkable. It is common knowledge beyond the borders of Abia that you are today widely reckoned as the best performing Governor in the country. We are sincerely proud to associate with such deliberate commitment and wish to assure His Excellency of our unflinching support towards consolidating this leadership beyond 2027,” Archbishop Kawas stated.

The Archbishop, reflecting on his previous visit to Abia two years back, pointed out the incredible changes the state has experienced under the current leadership.

“Slightly about two years ago, Abia State was in ruin; refuse dumps scattered everywhere, and the environment was in total decay. But today, I have visited Abia again and I have a soul full of joy. I am glad to declare that I have no regret for openly declaring our support for Dr. Otti during our mega rally at Obehie two years ago. Do not look back, Your Excellency, you are on the right path”, Archbishop Bawas declared.

He further emphasized that leadership is a divine trust bestowed by God, whether in the church or government. He warned that every leader is ultimately judged by history as either an asset or a liability, but expressed confidence that the Otti administration has already distinguished itself as an asset to the people of Abia State and Nigeria at large.

The Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria stands as a powerful Christian organization, boasting over 400 Bishops and senior Ministers of the Gospel among its ranks, along with hundreds of thousands of followers throughout the nation, including in Abia State.

The highlight of the visit was a heartfelt intercessory prayer session led by Archbishop Kawas and his team. They prayed for the Governor, the Deputy Governor, the members of the State Executive Council, and all those appointed in the administration, seeking God’s wisdom, strength, and divine protection as they guide the state’s affairs.

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, the Honourable Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Apostle K.C. Wiper, the Executive Secretary of the Abia State Pilgrims Board, Mrs. Chinweoke Mike-Iheadindu were among government officials present during the visit.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba, KSJI
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
Government House, Umuahia
3rd September, 2025.