…Youths Challenged to Lead with Courage, Integrity
Abia State Government has launched the Abia Leadership Academy Bootcamp, reaffirming its commitment to raising a new generation of visionary leaders through mentorship and capacity building.
Declaring the programme open at Government College, Umuahia, Governor Alex Otti, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu; described the initiative as “a seed-planting exercise and an investment in the future leaders of Abia, Nigeria, and the world.”
The bootcamp targets teenagers and young adults aged 16 to 20, equipping them with leadership skills, core values, and problem-solving abilities.
“In Abia, our vision is to raise young people who are not just future leaders in theory, but active leaders in practice today,” Otti said. “We want you to be problem-solvers in your schools, innovators in your communities, and ambassadors of good governance wherever you go.”
He urged participants to take the programme seriously, stressing that leadership begins with personal values and character.
“At 16 to 20 years old, your character and vision are like wet cement—what you allow to be written on it now will remain for a long time,” he noted.
The governor also encouraged self-reliance as a tool for societal contribution. “One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is the ability to stand on your own feet,” he said.
Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Kenneth Kanu, described the Leadership Academy as a platform to train empathetic leaders who will make decisions that positively impact society.
Other speakers—including the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Okey Kanu; Commissioner for Industry and SME, Mazi Mike Akpara; and Civil Service Commission Chairman, Pastor Eno Jerry Eze—urged participants to adopt a positive mindset, choose their circles wisely, and fully engage in the training.
Lead Consultant of the Abia Leadership Academy, Mr. Johnson Abbally, credited Governor Otti’s vision for making the initiative possible, noting its goal to produce global leaders capable of redefining governance in Nigeria.
The bootcamp will feature several days of workshops, mentorship, and practical exercises designed to nurture responsible, resilient, and innovative leaders.
