A delegation of top Executives from TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited has commended the leadership style of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, describing it as transformational, people-centred, and worthy of emulation.
This is contained in a statement issued on Saturday, 13 September, by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Otti, Njoku Ukoha.
The team led by a proud Abia son, Obi Imemba, Executive Director, Joint Venture Asset, Total-Energies EP Nigeria Ltd, visited Governor Otti at his residence after attending the burial of their late colleague, Chinwendu Ememanka, who until his death served the company with distinction.
In his remarks, Mr Imemba noted that the visit was not about politics but about recognising a rare brand of leadership that inspires hope.
“Everyone here today is not here simply because you are the Governor. We are here because we see something extraordinary in your leadership,” Mr Imemba said to Mr Otti.
“Everything rises and falls on leadership, and what you represent gives us confidence that Abia State is on the right track. We are proud to be associated with your brand of leadership.”
Mr Imemba emphasised that the private sector often criticises the Government but that Governor Otti’s approach has broken stereotypes, creating an environment where professionals and intellectuals feel encouraged to collaborate with the Government.
“We in the private sector usually shy away from the public sector, but under your leadership, the narrative has changed. We see progress, sincerity, and a willingness to partner. Many of us here have platforms for giving back, and we are willing to align with your vision to support the people of Abia State,” he added.
Otti’s response
Governor Otti, in his response, thanked the delegation for their kind words, while emphasising that leadership remains the bedrock of societal progress.
“Everything succeeds or fails on the altar of leadership. As I often say, when intelligent people stay away from politics, they lose the right to complain when poor leadership takes over. It requires sacrifice to make a difference, and we all have a role to play in shaping the society we desire,” the governor remarked.
He further assured the delegation of his administration’s openness to professional partnerships, stressing that his Government is determined to make Abia a model State driven by accountability, inclusivity, and excellence.
The Governor also paid tribute to the late Ememanka, describing him as a man who left a mark of excellence in his professional and personal life. He urged the team to continue supporting his family, while keeping his legacy alive.
Earlier, a proud Abia son, Onwuka Oreh, General Manager, Government Relations, TotalEnergies, praised Governor Otti’s strides in Abia State, pointing specifically to the historic Omenuko Bridge, which in the past claimed many lives due to its deplorable state but has now been reconstructed and stands strong under the Governor’s administration.
He described the project as a symbol of responsive leadership and evidence of the Governor’s commitment to safeguarding lives and improving infrastructure across the State.
The visit ended with mutual expressions of goodwill between the Governor and Total-Energies team as they looked forward to future engagements that would foster development in Abia State.
Other members of the TotalEnergies delegation included Eragbae Aikhoje, Executive General Manager, Field Operations Deep Water Asset; Cajetan Onu, Senior Advisor to the MD; and Nnamdi Amechi, GM Partners, Authorities & Regulators.