Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has reaffirmed the commitment of South-East governors to regional unity, collaboration and support for Nigeria’s overall national development.

Mr Uzodimma spoke on Friday during a New Year visit to Governor Alex Otti at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State 

He said the visit underscored ongoing efforts by South-East leaders to strengthen cooperation and collectively address development challenges confronting the region.

 According to him, sustained collaboration remains essential to unlocking the South-East’s economic potential and improving living standards for the people.

 The governor stated, “This is a new year, 2026, and as leaders of the South-East, we are determined to develop our region through collaboration.”

The Imo State governor, who chairs the South-East Governors’ Forum, said the meeting created room for frank discussions on governance priorities.

He noted that governors exchanged ideas on infrastructure, security, economic growth and policies aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.

“I came to share ideas with my brother, wish him a happy New Year and pray God to grant us wisdom to serve better,” he added.

Addressing questions on political motives, Mr Uzodimma said leadership engagements inevitably involve political discussions.

 “Everything in the world is politics. When two politicians meet, political conversations will naturally take place,” he said.

On the 2027 general elections, Mr Uzodimma dismissed claims that opposition realignments could weaken President Bola Tinubu’s prospects.

He said Mr Tinubu’s leadership record remained a strong foundation for public support across the country.

 “President Tinubu is a brand. His achievements in the economy, security, policies and social interventions speak clearly,” Mr Uzodimma said.

 He stressed that South-East governors had resolved to move beyond ethnic, sectional or divisive political considerations.

 “We have decided to stop tribal politics. We are Nigerians first before any other identity,” he stated.

Uzodimma said all five South-East governors were united in supporting Mr Tinubu’s policies and good governance initiatives.

 He urged the media to accurately reflect the true positions of leaders, stressing the region’s commitment to national unity.

Uzodimma said the South-East remained firmly dedicated to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Nigeria.

In his response, Nr Otti thanked Mr Uzodimma for the visit and extended New Year goodwill to Nigerians.

Mr Otti described Mr Uzodimma as a brother and commended his leadership of the South-East Governors’ Forum.

 He said the visit was not necessarily political, though political discussions were unavoidable among elected leaders.

 “It is impossible for politicians to meet without touching on politics,” Mr Otti said.

He emphasised that governance remains a collective responsibility shared across federal, state and local governments.

 “Government is one. You cannot claim opposition to a government you are constitutionally part of,” he stated.

Mr Otti said differences in party affiliation should not be misconstrued as opposition to governance itself.

 “You may disagree, but once decisions are taken, everyone remains part of the system,” he added.

He reaffirmed Abia’s place within the Federal Republic of Nigeria and appreciated Uzodimma’s visit.

Mr Otti highlighted longstanding ties between Abia and Imo states, noting significant social and commercial interactions, especially in Aba.

“We were once one state. Boundaries do not divide us. We are Igbo people and Nigerians,” Mr Otti said. 

(NAN)