25/05/2026
GOV. OTTI FLAGS-OFF ECUMENICAL CENTRE IN UMUAHIA, SAYS IT WILL NOT BE FUNDED BY GOVERNMENT.
As part of activities marking the third anniversary of the present administration in the State, Governor Alex Otti has flagged -Off the construction Ecumenical Centre in Umuagu, the Umuahia capital city.
Speaking while performing the foundation laying ceremony of the 1,000 capacity building in company of Bishop Chikezie Elekwa, Governor Otti said the Ecumenical Centre being built for the Christian community in Abia State is a fulfillment of promise he had made before his election in 2023.
"Like I said earlier, this centre was one of the things we had vowed to do when we came into office.
"This land where we are standing was acquired in 2009 and has somehow remained fallow waiting for this day," Gov. Otti stated.
Governor Otti clarified that the Ecumenical Centre he is building is not going to be funded by the State Government but from his private pause.
"The Ecumenical Centre is not going to be built with government money. No one Dime from the State government will go in there.
"I have already provided the land, I bought that land in 2009, that's 17 years ago," Gov. Otti stated.
In his speech, the contractor handling the project, Architect Onuka Ukwa said that the Ecumenical Centre is actually an ultra modern building to house over 1,000 worshippers.
He said that it is designed to cater for all Churches in the State, regardless their denomination. While assuring to deliver within 18 months, the architect thanked the Governor for the opportunity given to him.
"So, it's a multi-purpose, very functional building, and we hope to complete the building within 18 months from now.
"I would thank His Excellency for the trust in us, and we promise that we deliver the project to his very high expectations. Thank you, Your Excellency, Ukwa stated.
Members of the National and State Assembly, SSG, Chief of Staff, Commissioners, members of the clergy led by Bishop Chikezie Elekwa were present at the foundation laying ceremony.
Ctz. UKOHA, NJOKU UKOHA
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State.
May 24th, 2026.
