“Don’t Blame Buhari or Tinubu; See Economic Woes as a Chance to Correct Past Behaviors,” Says Abia Governor

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has urged Nigerians to view the nation’s economic challenges as opportunities to correct past missteps rather than blaming current and former leaders, such as President Bola Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari. Speaking at the 2024 Abia Women August Delegates Conference in Umuahia, Governor Otti called on citizens to abandon “past bad behaviors” and embrace a fresh start.

The governor highlighted the severe hardships facing Nigeria, including stagflation, insecurity, and widespread hunger. However, he emphasized that these difficulties could serve as a catalyst for positive change. “I will not blame anyone for Nigeria’s economic crisis. Instead, I see these upheavals as a chance to turn away from our past bad behaviors, start afresh, and with persistence, reclaim our place in the world,” Governor Otti stated.

He encouraged Nigerians to explore opportunities in agriculture, trading, services, and entrepreneurship, suggesting these sectors could lead the country out of its current struggles. “We have a large expanse of arable land in our communities. By focusing on agriculture, hunger and food scarcity will soon become old tales,” he added.

Governor Otti also underscored the significant role of women in the nation’s economic landscape, praising their contributions to governance and the survival of families during economic hardship. “The managerial capacity of our women has proven very useful in the survival of many families,” he remarked.

The conference theme, ‘Utilizing Growth Opportunities Amid Current Economic Challenges,’ aimed to inspire innovative thinking among Nigerians. Governor Otti concluded by expressing gratitude to Nigerian women for their resilience and resourcefulness, stating, “We are better as a people when women receive the support they need to fulfill their crucial roles in society. Today is an opportunity to thank our mothers and wives for their unwavering support and invaluable contributions.”