Alex Otti

**Alex Otti** His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR (born February 18, 1965, in Abia State, Nigeria), is a Nigerian economist, banker, politician, and the current Governor of Abia State. Prior to his foray into politics, he had a distinguished career in the Nigerian banking sector, culminating in his role as the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Diamond Bank. **Early Life and Education** Alex Otti was born on February 18, 1965, in Abia State, Nigeria. He pursued his higher education at the University of Lagos, where he studied and graduated with a degree. He later obtained a Diploma in Mass Communications from the University of Lagos. Additionally, Otti has been conferred with honorary doctorate degrees from several institutions, including Babcock University (2009), the University of Port Harcourt (2012), and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (2013). **Career Progression and Achievements** Otti built a remarkable career in the banking and finance industry. He rose to prominence as a seasoned banker and economist. A major highlight of his career was serving as the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Diamond Bank. He took voluntary retirement from this role on October 24, 2014, after his first tenure was renewed for an additional three years in March 2014. Otti is also recognized as a member of the editorial board for *Thisday* newspaper, for which he writes a fortnightly column titled "Outside The Box." **Political Career and Current Status** Dr. Otti transitioned into active politics, contesting the governorship of Abia State. After an earlier political aspiration, he joined the Labour Party in May 2022, having left the All Progressive Congress. Running under the Labour Party platform, he contested the 2023 governorship election and was successfully elected. Alex Otti assumed office as the Governor of Abia State on May 29, 2023, succeeding Okezie Ikpeazu. His administration, with Ikechukwu Emetu as his Deputy, has prioritized delivering development to the state. Otti has publicly stated his focus is on governance and developing Abia, and he is determined not to be distracted by early political permutations regarding the 2027 election. He is married to Priscilla Otti, and they have three children. He is a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.