Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, has reiterated the resolve of South-East governors to close ranks, deepen cooperation and rally behind Nigeria’s broader quest for national growth.
Uzodinma made this known on Friday during a New Year courtesy visit to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
He said the visit was more than a seasonal handshake, describing it as part of deliberate efforts by South-East leaders to speak with one voice and jointly confront the region’s development hurdles.
According to him, only sustained teamwork can unlock the region’s vast economic promise and lift the quality of life of its people.
“This is a new year, 2026, and as leaders of the South-East, we are determined to develop our region through collaboration,” Uzodinma said.
The Imo governor, who chairs the South-East Governors’ Forum, noted that the meeting provided a platform for open and honest conversations on key governance priorities.
He explained that discussions centred on infrastructure, security, economic expansion and policies aimed at easing the burden on citizens.
“I came to share ideas with my brother, wish him a happy New Year and pray God grants us wisdom to serve better,” he added.
Responding to suggestions of hidden political agendas, Uzodinma said political undertones were inevitable whenever leaders meet.
“Everything in the world is politics. When two politicians meet, political conversations will naturally take place,” he said.
Speaking on the 2027 general elections, Uzodinma brushed aside claims that emerging opposition alliances could dent President Bola Tinubu’s chances.
He maintained that Tinubu’s track record in office remained a solid pillar for nationwide support.
“President Tinubu is a brand. His achievements in the economy, security, policies and social interventions speak clearly,” Uzodinma said.
He stressed that South-East governors had agreed to rise above ethnic sentiments and divisive politics.
“We have decided to stop tribal politics. We are Nigerians first before any other identity,” he stated.
Uzodinma added that all five governors from the zone were aligned in supporting Tinubu’s policies and good governance agenda.
He also appealed to the media to report leaders’ positions accurately, reaffirming the region’s commitment to national cohesion.
According to him, the South-East remains firmly committed to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Nigeria.
In his remarks, Governor Otti thanked Uzodinma for the visit and extended New Year goodwill to Nigerians.
He described Uzodinma as a brother and praised his leadership of the South-East Governors’ Forum.
Otti noted that while the visit was not primarily political, discussions among elected officials would naturally touch on politics.
“It is impossible for politicians to meet without touching on politics,” Otti said.
He emphasised that governance is a shared responsibility across federal, state and local tiers.
“Government is one. You cannot claim opposition to a government you are constitutionally part of,” he stated.
Otti added that differences in party platforms should not be mistaken for hostility to governance itself.
“You may disagree, but once decisions are taken, everyone remains part of the system,” he said.
Reaffirming Abia’s place in the Nigerian federation, Otti expressed appreciation for Uzodinma’s visit and highlighted the long-standing bond between Abia and Imo states.
He pointed to deep social and commercial ties, particularly in Aba, as evidence of their shared history.
“We were once one state. Boundaries do not divide us. We are Igbo people and Nigerians,” Otti said.
