Otti Celebrates First Graduates of Abia Leadership Academy, Unveils Plan to Revive Star Paper Mill

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to nurturing a new generation of leaders through the Abia Leadership Academy, as the first cohort of young participants officially graduated during a ceremony held at Government College, Umuahia.

Speaking at the event themed “A New Pedestal”, Governor Otti stressed the importance of investing in young minds, particularly those aged 16 to 20, who took part in the Academy’s seven-day intensive leadership programme. The initiative is aimed at grooming transformative leaders who embody values such as empathy, integrity, and visionary thinking.

“We are intentional about shaping the minds of our young people, redirecting their energy towards ideals that once made our communities strong,” the Governor noted. He emphasized that true development can only be sustained when young people are equipped with the mindset and tools for effective leadership.

Governor Otti commended the graduates for their discipline and enthusiasm throughout the programme. He revealed that the 1,000 trained participants would soon be deployed to secondary and tertiary institutions across the state to pass on their newly acquired leadership knowledge. The broader plan, he said, is to expand the programme to reach thousands more in the coming years.

He also announced that the state is working on overhauling its education curriculum to align with modern realities and future workforce demands.

In a significant economic development, Governor Otti disclosed that the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has approved the state’s bid to acquire the long-abandoned Star Paper Mill. He assured that the state would settle the mill’s outstanding debt with AMCON by the end of the month and begin efforts to restore the facility.

“We intend to rehabilitate and eventually return the company to private hands,” he said, emphasizing its historical importance as one of the state’s largest employers.

Pastor Eno Jerry-Eze, Chairman of the Abia State Civil Service Commission and a key member of the Academy’s planning committee, described the programme as a milestone initiative, envisioning its graduates as future global trailblazers.

Programme Director, Mr. Johnson Abali, praised the Governor for championing youth empowerment and noted that participants were divided into five thematic “ports” to enhance their learning experience. He said they were encouraged to think critically and envision a transformed Abia by the year 2045.

Participants such as Clinton Salvation, Divine Okezie, and Oluomachi Favour Otum reflected on their journey, calling it a transformational experience and pledging to apply the knowledge gained for the betterment of Abia and Nigeria.

The well-attended graduation ceremony marked a significant step towards reshaping the leadership culture among Abia’s youth and reviving industrial productivity in the state.