Governor Alex Otti’s Digital Strategy: Leveraging social media for transparent and citizen-centric governance
Governor Alex Otti’s social media presence is an integral part of his governance strategy. On platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube, he engages with citizens, shares updates on his administration’s activities, and solicits feedback. This approach has been positively perceived as promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance. For instance, his Facebook page has become a hub for Abians to share their concerns, suggestions, and appreciation for the governor’s initiatives.
However, some critics perceive Governor Otti’s social media use as superficial, arguing that it focuses more on self-promotion rather than meaningful engagement. They contend that the governor’s team primarily shares achievements without providing adequate opportunities for constructive criticism or debate. Despite this, Governor Otti’s social media presence has contributed to his reputation as an interventionist leader committed to restoring Abia’s pride and dignity. His Excellency is mindful of Abia State’s reputation both locally and Internationally which drives him to carefully curate our developmental strides with diligence. Sometimes, he mandates on spot physical interactions to gauge the ‘streets’ without media attention. This is a strategy to uphold the project’s integrity and authenticity.
Riding on the Otti Wave, His Excellency, Dr Alex Chioma Otti OFR, draws inspiration from Singapore’s Smart Nation Initiative which exemplifies seamless policy-making, implementation, and feedback integration. Launched in 2014, this initiative leverages technology to enhance urban living. The government engaged citizens through social media platforms, mobile apps, and public forums to gather feedback. Data analytics and sensors monitor infrastructure, transportation, and public services. Policy adjustments are made based on citizen feedback and data insights. Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter facilitate real-time communication. Singapore’s approach demonstrates effective policy implementation and citizen engagement.
Our digital savvy Governor studied closely Rwanda’s Umwiherero Program which again showcases successful policy implementation and feedback mechanisms. This national citizen participation program enables citizens to contribute to policy-making through community meetings and online platforms. Feedback is collected and incorporated into policy adjustments. Social media platforms like Twitter facilitate real-time engagement. The program has improved public services, increased transparency, and boosted citizen participation.
These initiatives have improved public services, reduced corruption, and enhanced citizen participation.
These examples illustrate effective integration of policy-making, implementation, feedback, and social media engagement, ensuring citizen-centric governance and improved public services.
Governor Otti’s social media team responds to comments and messages, providing a channel for citizens to report issues or suggest solutions.
These regular updates on projects, policies, and budget allocations are shared to ensure citizens are informed.
We are reliably informed that to further provide a robust channel, the governor plans a slim, pragmatic, and zero beaucratic structure that solicits feedback through online polls, surveys, and town hall meetings.
Currently, Governor Otti’s Information and Media team are also leveraging social media to promote policy initiatives, such as infrastructure development, education, and healthcare reforms. While challenges persist, the governor’s social media strategy has contributed to his administration’s overall goal of repositioning Abia State for growth and development. By embracing social media, Governor Otti has demonstrated a willingness to adapt to modern governance practices, fostering a more inclusive and responsive administration.
•Dr Chukwuemeka Ifegwu Eke writes from University of Abuja Nigeria
