President Bola Tinubu on Friday urged political leaders from the South-East to embrace the inclusive style of leadership exemplified by the late Premier of the defunct Eastern Region, Dr. Michael Okpara.
Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, gave the charge while commissioning the newly renovated Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia.
He described Okpara as a visionary figure who strategically positioned the region within Nigeria’s political space and ensured that the South-East had a voice in national development.
According to the president, the late statesman championed unity by engaging the Centre, which created opportunities for the region in the larger national framework.
Tinubu praised the Abia State Government for transforming the auditorium into a modern landmark, befitting the memory of Okpara.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, stressing that his policies are designed to promote unity, balanced development, and improved livelihoods across the country.
The president noted that his visit to Abia was to inaugurate several projects aimed at uplifting the living standards of the people.
In his remarks, Governor Alex Otti said the facility had been abandoned for years before his government began its rehabilitation in 2023, and expressed satisfaction at the quality of work done.
The event attracted top dignitaries including Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Abia Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, Speaker of the State Assembly Emmanuel Emeruwa, former Deputy Governor Ude Oko-Chukwu, and other prominent officials.
By the end of the occasion, the gathering underscored both the legacy of Michael Okpara and the call for today’s leaders to draw inspiration from his enduring model of leadership.