Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, on Friday hosted a Scholarship Banquet in Umuahia for 50 successful beneficiaries of the 2025/2026 Alex Otti Undergraduate Scholarship Programme.
The scholarship scheme, instituted by the Alex Otti Foundation nearly a decade ago, supports brilliant students from less-privileged homes across Nigeria to pursue their academic dreams.
Speaking at the banquet, Governor Otti reaffirmed that the programme is built on merit, excellence, and transparency. He explained that applicants undergo a rigorous process involving online applications, written tests, and oral interviews before selection.
“We don’t jump anyone. Knowing somebody doesn’t help you, and not knowing anybody doesn’t hinder you. This programme is strictly merit-driven, and that is why it has remained credible for the past 10 years,” Otti said.
He emphasized that the foundation is non-political and open to all qualified undergraduates irrespective of state of origin or political affiliation. He urged the scholars to remain hardworking and make their families and the foundation proud.
Governor Otti also presented a dummy cheque for ₦250,000 to each beneficiary, assuring them that the annual support would continue until their graduation. He congratulated the students on their induction into the Alex Otti Scholars’ fold.
Delivering a keynote on “Quality Education as Fulcrum for Building Responsive and Effective Leadership,” Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Dr. Christopher Okoro, charged the students to see education not just as learning, but as a tool for character development, critical thinking, and leadership. He praised Governor Otti for investing in human capital through the scholarship scheme.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Alex Otti Foundation, Mr. Chidiebere Nnanna, described the initiative as a platform to help young people navigate 21st-century career paths, urging beneficiaries to use the opportunity as a springboard to greatness.
In their votes of thanks, some of the beneficiaries, including Mr. Godwin Ndubuisi and Miss Chinyere Chijioke, expressed deep gratitude to the foundation, noting that the scholarship has eased the financial burden on their parents and guardians.
The event was graced by senior government officials, guardians of the beneficiaries, and other dignitaries.
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