The President of the Abia State Youth Leadership Academy, Professor Kenneth Kalu, has encouraged participants of the first Abia Youth Leadership Academy Bootcamp to become good leaders who will make a positive difference in society.
Professor Kalu spoke during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Abia Youth Leadership Academy Bootcamp held at Government College, Umuahia.
He said the programme started three weeks ago with the application process and received 7,052 applications. According to him, more than 1,000 young people were selected to take part in the leadership training.
Professor Kalu explained that the bootcamp is aimed at preparing young people to become responsible, honest, and effective leaders. He said experienced facilitators and leadership experts from Abia State and other parts of Nigeria were invited to train and guide the participants.
He said the real success of the programme would be seen in how the participants use what they learn to improve their communities after the training.
Professor Kalu urged the participants to remain focused, disciplined, and committed throughout the programme. He also encouraged them to support Governor Alex Otti’s vision of raising a new generation of responsible and trustworthy leaders in Abia State.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Awa Ibe, Mgbeahuruike Chidera, Uche Faith, and Chukwuemeka Evans thanked the organisers for giving them the opportunity to take part in the bootcamp.
They also appreciated Governor Alex Otti for introducing the youth leadership programme and promised to take the training seriously.
The participants said they believe the bootcamp will increase their knowledge, improve their leadership skills, and prepare them to serve their communities and take on greater responsibilities in the future.
