By IHECHINYERE CHIGEMERI-UWOM

Former Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo says the Abia Senior Citizens Law signed by the Abia Governor, Alex Otti, is a landmark initiative that will protect vulnerable senior citizens of the state.

Osinbajo spoke Wednesday night while felicitating with the governor on his 61st birthday celebration in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of the state.

He said that the law reflected the state government’s concern for the elderly, noting that it also embodied transformative values of compassion and social responsibility inspired by the gospel of Jesus Christ.

“I was quite particularly touched by the new law for Senior Citizens in Abia State and I think it is one of those very important issues that we have to address.

“The gospel of Jesus Christ transformed nations because of the concern for the poor and vulnerable.

“The great welfare schemes around the world all came from the teachings of the gospel on taking care of the least of those in our society.

“I am personally impressed and happy that you were able to pass the Law; and of course, I have seen so many other things, the roads and all that,” Osinbajo said.

He congratulated the governor on his birthday and wished him continued success, strength, wisdom and favour in the months and years ahead.

He further commended Otti for the significant infrastructure improvement, especially the roads saying that true leadership required action and tangible results.

Osinbajo emphasised that public service was about improving citizens’ lives, observing that he and Otti share the ideal of serving the people with dedication.

Speaking, the lawmaker representing Umuahia Central state constituency, Mr Chinasa Anthony, said that the state had remained stable and progressive under the Otti-led administration.

He also commended the governor for his effective governance style, and wished him enduring strength, favour and continued service to Abia people.

The Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ikechukwu Uwanna, described the governor as a teacher and an exceptional leader

Uwanna prayed God to grant Otti long life and Abia more blessings and successes under his watch as governor.

The Chairman, Greater Aba Development Authority Board, Chief John Udeagbala described the governor’s work ethic and discipline as inspirational saying it reshaped his commitment to service and responsibility.

Responding, Otti attributed his over thirty-two month’s success story to God and the Abia citizens’ support.

He said that the essence of governance lay in prioritising citizens’ welfare.

He pointed out that any leadership which is focused on personal gains would inevitably fail, affirming that his administration remains guided by this principle.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to initiatives that would improve citizens’ daily life, and ensure they enjoyed security and stability across the state.

He commended the security outfits in the state noting that recent security successes had restored public confidence and safety throughout the state making it possible for residents to move freely.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governor was born on Feb. 18, 1965. (NAN)

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