Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has reaffirmed the commitment of South-East governors to regional unity, cooperation and support for Nigeria’s overall national development.
Uzodimma made the remarks on Friday during a New Year visit to Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State.
He said the visit reflected sustained efforts by South-East leaders to strengthen collaboration and jointly tackle development challenges facing the region. According to him, continuous cooperation is vital to unlocking the South-East’s economic potential and improving 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,” Uzodimma said.
The Imo governor, who also chairs the South-East Governors’ Forum, explained that the meeting allowed for open discussions on governance priorities. He noted that issues such as infrastructure, security, economic growth and policies aimed at enhancing citizens’ welfare were deliberated upon.
“I came to share ideas with my brother, wish him a happy New Year and pray that God grants us the wisdom to serve our people better,” he added.
Responding to questions about political undertones, Uzodimma said political discussions were inevitable whenever leaders met.
“Everything in the world is politics. When two politicians meet, political conversations will naturally take place,” he said.
Speaking on the 2027 general elections, Uzodimma dismissed suggestions that opposition realignments could threaten President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s chances, describing the president’s performance record as a strong basis for nationwide support.
“President Tinubu is a brand. His achievements in the economy, security, policies and social interventions speak for themselves,” he stated.
He stressed that South-East governors had agreed to move away from ethnic or divisive politics.
“We have resolved to end tribal politics. We are Nigerians first before any other identity,” Uzodimma said.
He added that all five South-East governors were united in supporting Tinubu’s policies and governance initiatives, while urging the media to reflect the true positions of leaders and the region’s commitment to national unity. According to him, the South-East remains dedicated to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Nigeria.
In his response, Governor Otti thanked Uzodimma for the visit and extended New Year goodwill to Nigerians. He described Uzodimma as a brother and praised his leadership of the South-East Governors’ Forum.
Otti noted that while the visit was not necessarily political, political discussions were unavoidable among elected officials.
“It is impossible for politicians to meet without touching on politics,” he said.
He emphasised that governance is a shared responsibility across federal, state and local governments.
“Government is one. You cannot claim opposition to a government you are constitutionally part of,” Otti stated.
He explained that differences in party affiliation should not be interpreted as opposition to governance itself.
“You may disagree, but once decisions are taken, everyone remains part of the system,” he added.
Otti reaffirmed Abia State’s place within the Federal Republic of Nigeria and expressed appreciation for Uzodimma’s visit. He also highlighted the longstanding social and commercial ties between Abia and Imo states, particularly in Aba.
“We were once one state. Boundaries do not divide us. We are Igbo people and Nigerians,” he said.
