Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has commended the Methodist Church Nigeria for its plan to establish a university in Umuimenyi, Bende Local Government Area of the state.
Otti gave the commendation on Thursday, August 28, 2025, when he received the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Abah, who visited him in Umuahia alongside a delegation of Archbishops and Bishops.
The Governor described the proposed institution as a welcome development and assured the church of the government’s support.
“We are very happy about this initiative and I can assure you that any support required from us will be provided. The Methodist Church has been a pioneer in missionary work, especially in health and education, and setting up a university in Abia is in line with that legacy,” he said.
Education Remains Priority
Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to education, noting that the sector has consistently received 20 percent of the state’s annual budget since he assumed office.
He recalled his inspection of Abia State University (ABSU), where he found hostels, cafeterias, and lecture theatres in deplorable condition, adding that the state government had embarked on extensive renovations, construction of new facilities, and clearance of salary arrears owed staff.
“We inherited a dilapidated system, but we have taken a principled stand to rescue and rehabilitate our institutions. Education will continue to receive priority attention,” Otti stated.
Land and Infrastructure Support
The Governor also directed his Deputy Chief of Staff, Barr. Chijioke Nwankwo, to work closely with the church to resolve land-related disputes that could hinder the project. He disclosed that road construction was ongoing around the proposed university site to ease access.
Earlier, the Prelate of the Methodist Church, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Abah, said the delegation visited to seek partnership with the state government in the establishment of the university.
He noted that the Methodist Church has historically been a pioneer in education, health, and social welfare in Nigeria, stressing that the proposed institution would contribute significantly to the growth of Abia and the country at large.
“This project will provide opportunities for young people to acquire knowledge and skills that will prepare them for nation-building. We seek collaboration with the state government to achieve this vision,” Abah said.
The Prelate commended Governor Otti for the achievements of his administration, describing him as “a capacity Governor elected by God and man,” while praying for continued success in governance.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials, including the Senior Special Assistant on Religious Affairs, Pastor K.C. Wiper; Deputy Chief of Staff, Barr. Chijioke Nwankwo; and the Director-General of the Public-Private Partnership and Investment Promotion Office, Mr. Chinedu Chijioke.
