Sanusi hails Abia Governor’s reforms at Atani festival, urging unity as leaders mark Christmas and highlight cross-regional ties nationwide focus now.
The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Mohammadu Sanusi II, has praised Abia State Governor Alex Otti for what he described as significant achievements and visible transformation since taking office, as he marked the Christmas season in southeastern Nigeria.
Sanusi, one of Nigeria’s most prominent traditional rulers and public intellectuals, made the remarks while attending the 2025 Atani Day cultural celebration in Arochukwu Local Government Area. The emir arrived in Abia on December 23 and joined Governor Otti at the event, which drew community leaders, residents, and cultural groups.
Speaking to the gathering, Sanusi said the impact of Otti’s administration had attracted attention beyond Abia State and Nigeria’s borders. He commended the governor for what he called steady progress over the past two years and urged him to continue delivering results for residents.
According to the emir, his presence in Abia during the Christmas period reflected a long-standing personal and professional relationship with Otti, which dates back decades to their time in Nigeria’s banking sector. He also noted that he serves on the governor’s international economic advisory council, a role he said he was proud to hold.
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Sanusi described the Atani Day celebration as impressive, praising the cultural displays and using the occasion to call for stronger national unity. He said exchanges such as the event underscored the importance of building bridges across Nigeria’s diverse regions, religions, and ethnic groups.
Governor Otti, in his remarks, welcomed the emir and described him as a close friend of more than 20 years. He said Sanusi’s visit during Christmas sent a strong message at a time when ethnic and religious divisions are often politicized.
Otti recalled Sanusi’s public service career, including his tenure as governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and his experiences as emir, describing him as a symbol of resilience and integrity. He told the audience that the emir’s life demonstrated the value of standing by one’s principles, even in the face of political challenges.
The Governor urged residents to remain steadfast in their own struggles, saying perseverance and commitment to truth would ultimately prevail.
Sanusi’s visit and remarks come amid broader national conversations about leadership, governance, and unity in Africa’s most populous country, where traditional rulers continue to play influential roles in shaping public discourse beyond their ceremonial duties.
