Abia State is witnessing a bold transformation under the visionary leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, the 5th democratically elected Executive Governor of the state. His administration has been marked by groundbreaking reforms and projects that cut across all sectors of the state’s economy — and the Abia State University (ABSU) is no exception.
Echoing the words of leadership expert Dr. Myles Munroe, “An army of sheep led by a lion will always defeat an army of lions led by a sheep.” Governor Otti’s leadership has been defined by integrity, trust, and a strong commitment to delivering results. Abians now proudly refer to him as the “Ekwueme Governor” — a man who keeps his word.
As the official Visitor to ABSU, Governor Otti has made significant interventions to elevate the university to 21st-century standards. His contributions reflect a clear understanding of the core purposes of a university — not just as a center for teaching and research, but also as a hub for national development through intellectual capital, skills development, and community impact.
Key Achievements at ABSU Under Governor Otti:
1. Academic Excellence
Full accreditation for all academic programmes (2024–2025), including Law and Medicine, by the NUC and relevant professional bodies.
Introduction of innovative new courses such as Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Software Engineering, and Agricultural & Bioresources Engineering.
Outstanding student performance, including six First Class honours in the 2024 Nigerian Law School exams.
2. Welfare & Staffing
Regular payment of salaries, including the clearance of 11 months’ salary arrears inherited from the previous administration.
Approval for recruitment of new staff in critical areas.
3. Security & Stability
Restoration of security across the university.
Sustained industrial peace and smooth academic calendar operations.
4. Student Growth & Environment
Significant increase in student enrollment.
Creation of a conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and community service.
5. Infrastructure Development
Approval for a 10MW Independent Power Project.
Construction of new 5,000-capacity male and female hostels.
Rehabilitation of existing student hostels and staff schools.
Renovation of road networks, including the once-dilapidated Okigwe–Uturu Road.
Restoration of water and electricity in student accommodations.
Construction of new Faculty of Law and Agriculture buildings.
6. Institutional Reforms & Appointments
Establishment of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, with Professor Uche Eme-Uche as the pioneer commissioner.
Appointment of Chief (Mrs.) Catherine Ifejika as the first female Chancellor of ABSU.
Formation of a high-profile Governing Council led by Rt. Hon. Dr. Agwu U. Agwu as Pro-Chancellor.
Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo, a seasoned administrator and academic, appointed as Vice-Chancellor.
ABSU is fast becoming a model institution in Nigeria, gaining national admiration for its academic innovations, infrastructure, and administrative stability.
Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to ABSU is not just reformative — it is revolutionary.
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