ABIA STATE GOVERNOR, DR. ALEX OTTI, TRANSFORMS DR. OGBONNAYA ONU POLYTECHNIC, ABA ATTENDS HISTORIC 19TH-21ST CONVOCATION, COMMISSIONS NEW PROJECTS, AND ANNOUNCES ₦1 MILLION GRANTS FOR TOP STUDENTS

The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, added another milestone to his administration's achievements by attending the 19th-21st combined convocation ceremony of the Abia State Polytechnic, now renamed Dr. Ogbonna Onu Polytechnic, Aba. The ceremony also marked a significant facelift for the institution with the commissioning of a newly restructured and redesigned main gate, along with other major projects.

Governor Otti, in a prelude to the convocation, commissioned major projects, including the institution's newly constructed gate and the renovated Rector’s Lodge, which had been abandoned for over 14 years. The ceremony also featured the unveiling of the academic brief and commissioning of key facilities, such as a renovated administrative building, a modern sports arena, and a newly equipped science block.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Polytechnic’s Governing Council, Hon. Stanley Egege, expressed gratitude for the Governor's leadership and highlighted a brighter future for the institution. He announced the impending commencement of academic activities at the Arongwa Campus in Osisioma LGA, a development expected to enhance educational opportunities and boost the institution's reputation.

The convocation ceremony witnessed the graduation of 2,138 National Diploma (ND) holders and 3,483 Higher National Diploma (HND) recipients. It also included the formal investiture of Dr. Alex Otti as the Visitor to the Polytechnic and the conferment of honourary fellowships on distinguished Nigerians who have made significant contributions to society.

Addressing the gathering, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. (Engr.) Christopher Okoro, expressed gratitude to the governor for his unwavering support, which has enabled the institution to make significant strides.

“Thanks to Governor Alex Otti, we have embarked on a transformative journey, ensuring improved staff welfare, regular salary payments, and infrastructure upgrades. This includes a 33KVA generator installation, a cleared ₦30 million gas bill, and a digitization drive for our certificates,” he noted.

The Rector highlighted the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Career Service Development as core courses for all departments. The polytechnic has also become the first in the country to introduce cutting-edge courses like Autotronics, Mechatronics, Leather Technology, Film and Multimedia Production, Journalism, and Mass Media Studies.

“We are setting new standards in polytechnic education,” he remarked, adding that certificates now feature QR codes for authenticity verification, allowing graduates to confirm their credentials from anywhere in the world.

In his keynote speech titled "Education, Value Creation, and Enduring Substance," Governor Alex Otti reaffirmed his administration's commitment to transforming education in Abia State. He revealed that he had directed the Accountant General and Secretary to the State Government to ensure prompt payment of all outstanding salaries, including a 13th-month bonus for polytechnic staff.

The governor also announced an incentive for academic excellence: ₦1 million grants for the first 150 best-performing students.

“This administration recognizes the value of hard work and is committed to rewarding excellence,” he declared.

The event featured a vibrant procession that included Senior and Principal Assistant Registrars, Students' Union Executives, student representatives, members of the Academic Board, Deans of Schools, the Deputy Rector, and other distinguished academicians.

As the convocation drew to a close, the polytechnic's transformation under Governor Otti’s leadership was evident. From infrastructure upgrades to academic innovations, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic stands poised to set the pace for polytechnic education in Nigeria.

This landmark event is not just a celebration of Governor Otti's achievements but a promise of an exciting and prosperous future for Abia State’s educational landscape.

The event was attended by an array of dignitaries, including Hon. Ginger Obinna Onwusibe, Member representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency; Hon. Timothy Kalu Iheke, Executive Chairman of Aba North; Hon. Obialor Denis Anyanwu, Executive Chairman of Aba South; and Hon. Maxwell Nwadike, Executive Chairman of Obingwa. Members of the Abia State House of Assembly, students’ union executives, deans of schools, and other distinguished guests were also present, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.

The ceremony underscored the administration’s focus on revitalizing education, fostering innovation, and laying a solid foundation for the future of Dr. Ogbonna Onu Polytechnic.