Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu, has saluted the people of the State on the auspicious occasion of the 29th anniversary of the creation of the State.
Governor Ikpeazu paid glowing tributes to the founding fathers who worked tirelessly to ensure the actualization of the creation of Abia State and made it clear that even in the face of tough challenges, Abia people had continued to trudge on towards the path of peace and progress.
Describing Abia as “work in progress”, the Governor stated that the development of critical infrastructure in the State had received massive impetus under his administration, judging from the sheer number of road projects that had either been completed or ongoing, assuring that the tempo will be sustained and even increased to ensure that the infrastructural stock in the State was improved upon significantly.
The Governor thanked God and the people of the State for the security, peace and stability the State had enjoyed in last couple of years, describing Abia as the most politically stable state in the country.
Ikpeazu made the commendation in a statement on Thursday morning, by his Chief Press Secretary, Onyebuchi Ememanka.
He expressed his appreciation to the Deputy Governor, Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, Traditional, Religious and other political leaders for their statesmanly roles in ensuring that the political stability enjoyed by the state is sustained.
Governor Ikpeazu assured the people of the State that even with the challenges posed by the sudden outbreak of COVID-19, which created massive economic shocks across the globe, his administration “will continue to apply prudence in ensuring that available resources are managed for the good of our people”, while seeking creative means to improve our financial capabilities.
He also tasked the people of the State to appreciate the fact that the economic disequilibrum created by the effects of Covid-19, especially on the global financial system will inevitably demand certain levels of readjustments and sacrifices in the management of the State’s finances.
He thanked the people of the State for the support his administration had enjoyed and assured them that he will continue to discharge the responsibilities of his office with dedication and commitment to the ideals of economic development and progress.
In his words, “I shall remain focused on the discharge of the obligations of my office and I do so relentlessly and with dedication until the very last day of my tenure as your Governor.
“In the months ahead, we shall develop more sustainable means of solidifying our position as the SME Capital of Nigeria by continuing to support the growth of local enterprises as a catalyst for economic development”.
Encouraging Abians not to become faint hearted, especially in the face of the effects of COVID-19, he tasked the people to continue to accept the reality of the deadly nature of the virus and take all necessary precautions in line with the protocols as enunciated by all relevant health authorities.
He sent his gratitude to all medical and allied services workers who have been in the forefront of the fight against COVID-19 and assured that his administration will do everything necessary to protect the people.