Governor Alex Otti urges 1,000 Abia Leadership Academy graduates to be role models, drive change, and lead their communities with integrity and innovation.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has urged one thousand graduates of the Abia Leadership Academy to uphold high ethical standards and serve as role models within their communities.
Delivering his keynote address at the combined graduation ceremony for Cohorts 3 and 4 at Government College, Umuahia, Governor Otti encouraged the participants to apply their training to solving real-world problems and driving positive change.
Speaking on the theme “Role Models and Pathfinders,” the Governor stressed that leadership success is measured not only by personal achievements but by the lives impacted, innovative ideas introduced, and courage inspired in others. He explained that the academy was established to nurture young leaders through mentorship, exposure, and value-driven training.
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“Our conviction is that 1,000 of you can spark a movement that transforms the destiny of millions,” Otti stated, emphasizing that the state had invested substantially in their development and expects them to demonstrate gratitude through leadership and service.
Governor Otti also announced plans for a digital alumni community to provide continued mentorship, networking, and international training opportunities. He assured the graduates that the state government would continue to support and monitor their progress, inviting them periodically to government functions for leadership exposure.
The Governor’s remarks were complemented by tributes from state officials. Professor Kenneth Kalu, Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the organizing committee, commended Otti for initiating a programme that reshapes the knowledge, skills, and aspirations of Abia’s youth.
Pastor Enoh Jerry-Eze, Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, noted that the academy had entrenched values such as integrity, empathy, discipline, creativity, and resilience among participants, demonstrating that leadership is an inclusive opportunity rather than a privilege for a few.
Graduates shared testimonies of transformation, stating that the programme had equipped them with problem-solving abilities and a renewed sense of civic responsibility.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, senior government officials, and community leaders. In a symbolic gesture of support, Governor Otti donated 150 foldable chairs, 150 foldable tables, mattresses, and other training materials to Government College, Umuahia.
With the successful graduation of its third and fourth cohorts, the Abia Leadership Academy continues to build a pipeline of young leaders ready to drive innovation, integrity, and community development across the state.
