The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti has hosted the pioneer Military Administrator of the State, Air Vice Marshal Frank Ajobena (Rtd), CON, at the Government House in Umuahia.

The visit, described by AVM Ajobena as a wonderful homecoming, marked his return to the state he helped establish more than three decades ago. It was his first visit to Abia in 14 years.

AVM Ajobena, who governed Abia State during its infancy between August 1991 and January 1992, was accompanied on the visit by his son, Flight Lieutenant Terry Ajobena (Rtd).

According to Governor Otti, the visit was both symbolic and timely, serving as a bridge between the state’s foundational history and its current trajectory.

The Governor expressed deep gratitude for the visit, noting that he was genuinely touched by the elder statesman’s gracious words and his keen interest in the state’s progress.

During the visit, the former Military Administrator took stock of the ongoing transformation in the state.

He specifically commended the current administration’s efforts to restore purposeful governance and responsible leadership.
AVM Ajobena highlighted visible changes in both Umuahia and Aba, acknowledging specific infrastructural milestones.

He pointed to the reconstruction of the strategic Port Harcourt Road in Aba, the remodelling and retrofitting of the Michael Okpara Auditorium, and the extensive ongoing renovation works at the Government House as evidence of the administration’s progress.

Governor Otti described the pioneer administrator as one of the founding fathers of the state.

He emphasized that Ajobena’s presence served as a reminder of the enduring value of legacy and service.

“His visit was both symbolic and timely… I remain grateful for his encouragement and his call for unity among leaders, past and present, as we continue the work of rebuilding Abia,” Otti stated.

The Governor thanked AVM Ajobena and his son for their steadfast commitment to the progress of Abia, adding that their encouragement strengthens the administration’s resolve to press on with the work of rebuilding the state.

Abia State was created on August 27, 1991, by the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida. As the first Military Administrator, AVM Ajobena was responsible for setting up the initial administrative structures of the new state before handing over to the first civilian governor in early 1992.