Governor Alex Otti has given out N150 million to 150 graduates of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, to help them start their own businesses. Each graduate received N1 million.
The Rector of the school, Dr. Christopher Kalu Okoro, presented the cheques during a pre-investment training held at the school auditorium. He urged the beneficiaries to use the money wisely and focus on building successful businesses that can create jobs for others.
Dr. Okoro reminded the graduates that the money is meant only for business. “This money is not for Brazilian hair or betting. It should help you grow and become better so you can give back to society,” he said.
He also explained that the money is a grant, not a loan, and praised Governor Otti for the support. He noted that it was the first time a state government in Nigeria was giving such financial assistance purely for empowerment.
The governor first announced the initiative during the polytechnic’s 2024 convocation, promising N1 million each to the 50 best graduating HND students from the 2021/2022, 2022/2023, and 2023/2024 academic sessions. The beneficiaries submitted business proposals, which were reviewed and approved by a consultant.
The pre-investment training prepared the graduates for business management. Facilitators Dr. Chinweoke Nwaeze, Mr. Shaka Obasi (CEO, Panyu Hotel), Dr. Uche Nwosu, and Mr. Nwaohu Ugochukwu of Shaga Group taught them basic business skills, warned them about challenges in a competitive environment like Aba, and shared important legal tips to help them avoid unnecessary problems.
The Student Union Government President, Comrade Ifeanyi Michael Maduka, thanked the governor and said the grant would encourage students to work harder in school.
Some beneficiaries including Chukwuma Egwuatu (Accountancy), Nwachukwu Cyril Emmanuel (Business Administration and Management), and Nduka Harmony (Mass Communication) said they plan to invest the money in growing their businesses and creating jobs. They also praised Governor Otti for helping them begin their journey as entrepreneurs.
