The Head, Due Process and Public Procurement Bureau, Abia State, Dr. Oluebube Chukwu, has commended Governor Alex Otti for launching the Abia Leadership Academy Bootcamp, describing it as a transformative initiative that will put Abia’s youth on the path of greatness.
Speaking with newsmen shortly after the event at Government College, Umuahia, Dr. Chukwu noted that the programme would not only give young people the right direction and timely engagement but also help nip crime in the bud.
He stressed that sustaining such an initiative would be critical in stabilising Abia’s youth and equipping them to become responsible leaders in the future.
Gov. Otti had earlier declared the bootcamp open, adding that the programme targets teenagers and young adults aged 16 to 20.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, he explained that it is designed to instill leadership skills, strong personal 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.
“We want you to be problem-solvers in your schools, innovators in your communities, and ambassadors of good governance wherever you go”, he added.
He urged participants to take the programme seriously, reminding them that leadership begins with personal 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.
Earlier, Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Organising Committee, Prof. Kenneth Kanu, described the Leadership Academy as a platform for grooming empathetic leaders who can 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—encouraged participants to maintain a positive mindset, choose their friends wisely, and make the most of the training.
Lead Consultant of the Abia Leadership Academy, Mr. Johnson Abbally, lauded Governor Otti’s vision, noting that the goal is to produce global leaders capable of redefining governance in Nigeria.
The bootcamp will run for several days and will feature workshops, mentorship sessions, and practical exercises aimed at producing responsible, resilient, and innovative leaders.