Akwa Ibom State Governor Godswill Akpabio has stressed the need for economic integration between Southsouth and Southeast geopolitical zones, to fast-track development and mutual co-existence.
The governor, who spoke at the weekend at Nnewi in Anambra State after being conferred with the chieftaincy title of “Omelu-Ora” by Igwe of Nnewi, His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Orilu III, as part of activities concluding a week-long celebration of Igwe’s 50 years on the throne, said: “We as great sons and daughters of Southeast and Southsouth must make efforts to unite the two geopolitical zones.”
He said: “By this gesture, we have re-united the Southsouth and the Southeast, which is something Governor Peter Obi and I have been trying to do in the last six years. These geopolitical zones must be united.
“That was why we started the Southeast and Southsouth Governors’ Forum. Today we are having a meeting to bring about economic integration of the geopolitical zones. When we have a united Southsouth and Southeast, we will have a greater voice in the comity of states in the country.”
Akpabio hailed the Igwe of Nnewi for the honour done him, saying: “I receive the title because your background and pedigrees are well known to all. I found out that you are a grand patron of the Men’s Fellowship of Anglican Church. This shows you have brought Christianity into governance; you have brought God into your throne. This is why I associate with you because every authority comes from God and that is what you are practicing.”
He described Nnewi town as the spiritual headquarters of Igbo land.
Governor Obi said the conferment of “Omelu-Ora” chieftaincy title on Governor Akpabio by the Igwe-in-council of Nnewi was justified. He described the Akwa Ibom governor as a true Nigerian committed to the country’s transformation.
Governor Akpabio’s wife, Unoma, was also honoured by the Igwe of Nnewi with the chieftaincy title of ‘Ada Eji Eze Mba’ of Nnewi town.
