Umuahia, Abia State
Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his commitment to empowering young Nigerians through education as he hosted a special banquet for 50 beneficiaries of the Alex Otti Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The scholarship, which has been running for nearly a decade under the Alex Otti Foundation, targets bright undergraduate students from less-privileged backgrounds across Nigeria. During the banquet, held in Umuahia, Governor Otti presented a dummy cheque for ₦250,000 per beneficiary, promising continued support until their graduation.
Speaking at the event, Governor Otti emphasized that the foundation’s scholarship scheme is based solely on merit, excellence, and transparency. He highlighted that applicants undergo a rigorous selection process—including online applications, aptitude tests, and oral interviews—with no political or personal bias.
ALSO READ: FG Warns of Heavy Rainfall and Flooding in 15 States and 69 Communities (Sept 24–28, 2025)
“This is not a political programme. Anyone can apply regardless of their state of origin or political affiliation. Once you merit it, you get it,” Otti stated.
The governor encouraged the new scholars to remain diligent, uphold high standards, and make their families and the foundation proud. He also noted that past beneficiaries of the scholarship are excelling in their careers globally.
In his keynote address titled “Quality Education as Fulcrum for Building Responsive and Effective Leadership”, Dr. Christopher Okoro, Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, urged the students to view education not only as a tool for knowledge but as a pathway to leadership and societal impact. He commended Governor Otti for investing in human capital development through quality education.
Executive Secretary of the Alex Otti Foundation, Mr. Chidiebere Nnanna, praised the governor for creating opportunities that help students navigate modern career challenges, describing the scholarship as a springboard to greatness.
Some of the beneficiaries, including Godwin Ndubuisi and Chinyere Chijioke, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the foundation for easing their families’ financial burdens and giving them a chance to excel academically.
The event, which drew senior government officials, parents, and guardians of the scholars, ended with a renewed pledge from the Alex Otti Foundation to continue its support for education and leadership development in Nigeria.