The Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodinma, on Friday paid a courtesy visit to the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, with a strong focus on strengthening cooperation aimed at advancing development across the South-East region. Governor Uzodinma arrived for the meeting alongside a former Governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim. According to him, the engagement formed part of ongoing efforts by the five South-East governors to exchange ideas and identify practical ways to improve the living conditions of residents across the zone. During the discussion, Uzodinma emphasized that meaningful progress within the South-East cannot be achieved in isolation. He stressed that unity and a shared developmental vision among the region’s governors remain essential for addressing common challenges and ensuring sustainable growth. He further explained that the governors have continued to explore collective approaches that would enable the people of the South-East to better cope with prevailing economic and social realities. According to him, collaboration remains the strongest tool available to the region’s leadership. The Imo State Governor also dismissed claims suggesting that the visit had political undertones linked to the 2027 general elections. He clarified that the visit was a New Year goodwill engagement and an opportunity to commend Governor Otti for what he described as commendable governance efforts in Abia State. Uzodinma reiterated that, as Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum, he carries the responsibility of maintaining close contact with his counterparts. He noted that regular interaction allows the governors to deliberate, share perspectives, and jointly agree on strategies that can improve the welfare of citizens across the region. According to him, the five governors of the South-East have collectively resolved to ensure that the region remains fully integrated within the Nigerian project. He assured that their continuous engagements are centered on promoting unity, stability, and development within the zone. In his response, Abia State Governor Alex Otti expressed appreciation for the visit and welcomed the spirit of cooperation it represented. He also dismissed any political interpretation of the meeting, noting that differences in political party affiliation should not be mistaken for rivalry or opposition. Governor Otti emphasized that governance and regional progress should transcend party lines, reaffirming his commitment to working with fellow governors for the overall interest of the South-East.
