Gov Otti grace Ofuji All White New Year thanksgiving in Igbere
The Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, the Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, and other prominent Abians were among the high profile dignitaries who attended the 2026 Ofuji All White New Year Party, held to usher in the new year in an atmosphere of thanksgiving, elegance and unity.
The colourful event, which took place at the Ofuji Arena in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, captains of industry and socialites to celebrate the gift of a new year and offer prayers for peace, progress and prosperity in Abia State and Nigeria.
Conceived as an expression of gratitude to God, the gathering was designed to foster unity among Abians while appreciating divine grace for life and renewed opportunities.
Speaking with journalists, the organiser of the maiden Ofuji All White Fireworks and New Year Thanksgiving Party, Dr Chima Anyaso, explained that the celebration, previously held on the last day of the year, was deliberately moved to 1 January to give it deeper symbolic meaning and broader impact.
According to him, the adjustment allows the event to function both as a New Year celebration and a thanksgiving service, making it more inclusive and spiritually significant.
“The essence of this event is to thank God for the new year. We decided to move it to January 1 so it can double as a New Year celebration. It is about bringing people together to appreciate God and thank Him for the wonderful year we believe 2026 will be,” he said.
Anyaso noted that the Ofuji All White Fireworks Party would henceforth become an annual tradition, providing a platform for Abians to collectively appreciate God for life and fresh opportunities.
On New Year resolutions, the philanthropist described them as personal commitments rooted in individual faith, stressing that success comes when faith is matched with action. He emphasised that resolutions differ from person to person, noting that belief systems vary.
“It is about faith, and when you put your faith to work, it will surely come to pass,” he stated.
Outlining his expectations for the new year, the political stalwart observed that Nigerians, particularly Abians, harbour high hopes for 2026, especially as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to gather momentum.
He described 2026 as a critical year in which politicians start strategic positioning, while citizens look beyond politics to improved governance and better living conditions.
“As Nigerians, we have expectations, especially from government. 2025 was quite interesting, with many agitations already pointing towards the elections. 2026 is important because it is when politicians begin to position themselves for 2027. But beyond politics, what we want is better governance, a better life for our people and improved living conditions,” he said.
On taxation, Dr Anyaso expressed support for the new tax regime but stressed the need for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. He said he was not opposed to paying taxes, provided the revenue collected is judiciously utilised for the benefit of citizens.
Taxpayers, he added, deserve value for their money.
Addressing concerns about insecurity in the South East, Anyaso downplayed widespread fears, noting that the situation on the ground is not as dire as often portrayed on social media. He, however, urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and security conscious.
“I have been here since the 23rd and there has been no incident or cause for worry. It is not that insecurity does not exist, but it is not as bad as it is being portrayed online. People should be conscious and not let their guard down,” he said.
He further advised those who returned home for the festivities to plan their movements carefully and take personal security seriously.
The Ofuji All White Fireworks and New Year Thanksgiving Party marked a colourful and peaceful start to the year, as one hundred sons of Bende were empowered with a total sum of fifty million naira.