Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has expressed readiness to partner with members of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers in the state’s development.
Otti stated this on Tuesday at the Government House, Umuahia, while receiving a delegation of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, led by its President and Chairman of Council, ESV Chief Victor Alonge.
The delegation was in the state for its 2026 annual conference taking place at the International Conference Centre, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia.
The governor said his administration considers itself a partner to institutions that share its vision for development.
“We consider ourselves partners to institutions and individuals who share our vision and aspiration for a better society. We have worked closely with members of this institution in Abia State, and we intend to strengthen that collaboration.
“There are many initiatives in the real estate sector that will require your involvement and that of your members. This presents an opportunity for us to deepen our partnership and work more closely together,” Otti said.
Otti thanked the institution for choosing Abia as the host for its annual conference and Annual General Meeting for the first time.
He assured the delegation of the support of his administration, directing members of his cabinet to collaborate closely with the association.
“I will instruct my commissioners to work closely with you. Our people are also ready to provide all the necessary support you may require,” he added.
The governor also reiterated his commitment to establishing a five-star hotel in Umuahia to provide improved accommodation for visitors and organisations hosting conferences in the state.
Earlier, the President and Chairman of the Council of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, Dr Victor Alonge, said the delegation was in the state for the institution’s 2026 annual conference.
He said the conference, themed “Corridors, Connectivity and Capital: Rethinking Real Estate Development Along Renewed Hope Infrastructure Investments,” is scheduled to be held from April 13 to April 18 at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia.
Alonge noted that this was the first time Abia State would host the conference and expressed appreciation to the governor for his support.
“I would like to appreciate Your Excellency for the cordial working relationship between members of our profession in Abia State and the state government.
“We will continue to offer our professional services in line with global best practices, while upholding our well-established code of professional ethics,” he said.
He added that members of the institution had contributed significantly to the state’s development in areas such as policy formulation, land administration, asset management, housing, and project development.
Alonge further stated that the governor’s reform initiatives and policies had opened up the state to both local and foreign investments, strengthening its economy.
The Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, commissioners for Housing, Lands and Survey, and Agriculture, as well as other senior government officials, were present at the meeting.