Gov. Otti Reaffirms Commitment to Promoting Arts, Culture, and Youth Creativity

Gov. Otti Reaffirms Commitment to Promoting Arts, Culture, and Youth Creativity

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to promoting arts, culture, and the creative economy as vital tools for youth empowerment and sustainable economic growth in the state.

Governor Otti, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Kenneth Kalu, made this known at the grand finale of the Abia Beyond Creativity Talent Hunt held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Secretariat, Umuahia.

He described the initiative as one of the flagship programmes of his administration, designed to discover, empower, and showcase the abundant creative potential of Abia youths. According to him, the state government places a high premium on youth creativity, recognizing that arts, culture, and innovation form critical pillars of Abia’s future economic prosperity.

The governor commended the organisers and participants for their efforts, emphasizing that his government remains dedicated to creating platforms that nurture young talents and strengthen the state’s creative economy.

He urged participants to believe in their abilities and to see themselves as key contributors to the transformational agenda of the Otti-led administration. Governor Otti further assured that his government would continue to support initiatives that promote innovation, cultural expression, and sustainable youth development.

In his address, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. Mathew Ekwuribe, stated that the talent hunt aims to promote innovation, cultural excellence, and creative expression as fundamental to repositioning Abia’s creative industry for global relevance. He commended Governor Otti for his visionary leadership and continued support.

The Commissioner also appreciated the contributions of partners, ministries, judges, and participants whose collaboration ensured the programme’s success. By positioning creativity as a catalyst for economic growth and social transformation, Hon. Ekwuribe reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to building a thriving creative ecosystem. His vision of Abia as the “Creative Heartbeat of Nigeria” serves both as a promise and a call to action to keep championing imagination, culture, and innovation as foundations for the state’s bright future.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Hon. Nwaobilor Ananaba, applauded the participants for showcasing their God-given talents, describing the event as a celebration of creativity and innovation. He encouraged the youths to continue nurturing their skills and using their talents to make meaningful contributions to society.

In her keynote address, the Chief Judge of Abia State, Hon. Justice Lilian Aba represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr. Ikechukwu Oriuwa emphasized the critical role of creativity and innovation in driving societal progress and development. She noted that creativity is not only about producing art or design but also about reimagining possibilities, solving problems, and connecting ideas with real-world solutions.

Justice Abai highlighted that creativity bridges the gap between challenges and opportunities, empowering individuals especially youths and civil servants to think differently, innovate boldly, and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

She commended the collaborative efforts of the Ministries of Health, Culture and Creative Economy, Youth, and Social Services for providing platforms that nurture creativity and empower young talents.

According to her, such initiatives are essential for transforming ideas into enterprises, talents into livelihoods, and imagination into impactful innovation. She expressed optimism that under Governor Alex Otti’s leadership, Abia State is on a promising path toward building a vibrant creative economy.

Justice Abai concluded by urging all participants to pursue their dreams with faith, discipline, and hard work, reminding them that creativity is not just a talent, but a force that shapes communities, inspires peace, and defines the future of Nigeria.

Speaking on behalf of the other contestants, the overall winner, Mr. Kelechi Kelvin, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Governor Alex Otti’s administration for providing them with a lifetime opportunity to showcase their talents. He pledged to continue developing and nurturing his gifts.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of cash prizes—₦2 million, ₦1.5 million, and ₦1 million—to the first, second, and third-place winners, respectively. Other participants also received consolation prizes. The awards were presented on behalf of the Governor by Prof. Kenneth Kalu, who was accompanied by other government officials and dignitaries.