Alex Otti Urges Nigerians to Embrace Values for Progress

In his 2026 Independence Day Anniversary broadcast titled ‘Citizenship, Freedom, and Vigilance,’ Abia State Governor Alex Otti expressed that Nigeria has the potential to be a great nation if its citizens adopt good values and reject negative tendencies. He urged citizens to leverage their democratic rights to push for accelerated national development and emphasized the need for capable leadership, stating that progress is unattainable without it.

Otti warned that the pursuit of progress would remain an illusion if citizens abstain from voting or engage in vote-buying. He highlighted several challenges facing Nigeria, including insecurity, inadequate infrastructure, poverty, unemployment, and limited access to education and healthcare, which have worsened over the last two decades.

Otti expressed concern over the emigration of young Nigerians in search of better opportunities abroad. He concluded his address with gratitude for the nation’s independence and a call to reflect on the sacrifices made by the founding fathers.