Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has approved the establishment of a MiniHollywood and Entertainment Village in Aba, alongside plans to set up an Arts and Culture Gallery in Umuahia, as part of efforts to grow the state’s creative economy.
Governor Otti made this known on Saturday night during a birthday party ceremony held at the Dr. Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, in honour of renowned Abia-born music legend, Sir Bright Chimezie, popularly known as the Duke of African Music and pioneer of the Zigima sound 65th birthday.
Though the original birthday date was 1st October but Bright was outside the country during his birthday this year.
Speaking at the event, the governor said although Abia may not be as globally renowned as California, the state is determined to develop its creative industry within its capacity. He urged Abia creatives in arts and culture to actively engage with the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy to harness available opportunities.
Governor Otti stressed that his administration would not celebrate individuals with questionable character, particularly those who acquired wealth through drug trafficking, fraud, or other criminal activities.
“If you made your money through stealing, drug peddling or 419, I will not celebrate you. That is not what we are known for,” Otti said. “From now on, we will celebrate our heroes and icons who did things the right way. Money is good, but how you made it matters.”
He emphasized the values of dignity, integrity and hard work, noting that these principles guide his administration’s heavy investment in education. According to him, the introduction of compulsory education policies has led to a significant rise in school enrolment across the state.
“Our people love education. When we made it compulsory, enrolment doubled within one month and doubled again after three months. Education gives confidence, capacity and the ability to contribute meaningfully anywhere in the world,” he said.
The governor praised Sir Bright Chimezie for his immense contribution to the promotion of Igbo language and culture, describing him as an icon who has made Abia and Igboland proud through his music and cultural innovations.
“We cannot abandon those who laboured hard to build our cultural identity. Bright Chimezie is a legend who has earned his place. As a government, we are open to collaboration and support for creatives whose work aligns with our vision,” Otti added.
He assured that his administration remains committed to supporting creativity, entrepreneurship and job creation, stressing that government support would be channelled towards initiatives that grow the economy rather than personal enrichment.
The event attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, members of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), artistes, friends and well-wishers, including people from Ekeoba Ohuhu, the celebrant’s hometown.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr. Matthew Ekwuribe, described Bright Chimezie as one of Abia State’s finest music legends. He commended Governor Otti for consistently celebrating excellence and noted that remarkable progress has been recorded in the arts sector under the present administration.
The Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, represented by Ejekajo Williams, entertained the audience with musical performances and appealed to the governor for support in the form of a functional studio and a bus to ease members’ mobility.
In a goodwill message, the elder brother of the celebrant, Chief Benson Irommuo, publicly apologized to Bright Chimezie for initially discouraging his music career, expressing pride in his achievements and thanking Governor Otti for the recognition.
Also speaking, the traditional ruler of Ekeoba community, Eze Iheanyichukwu Nwokenna, thanked the governor for honouring their son and prayed for greater heights for the music icon.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, while proposing a toast, described the celebration as a recognition of Igbo excellence on a global scale, noting that the event marked a new chapter in Bright Chimezie’s illustrious career.
In his response, Sir Bright Chimezie expressed deep gratitude to Governor Otti for the honour, describing the recognition as historic and unforgettable. He assured that the entertainment community would always remember the governor’s gesture and prayed for God’s guidance and fulfilment of Otti’s vision beyond 2027.
