Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has said that partnership among stakeholders in the educational sector would help achieve the common goal of providing quality education to our students.
The Governor represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, at the official handover of renovated buildings at the Federal College of Education Ofeme Ohuhu in Umuahia North LGA, described the event as a significant milestone in the educational landscape of Abia State.
He said that the event was not just the completion of a project but a renewed commitment to the future of education in Abia State. According to him, education remains the bedrock of any society, and through institutions like the Federal College of Education, Ofeme Ohuhu, the minds and talents of our youth would be cultivated and prepare them to become leaders of tomorrow.
The Governor acknowledged the tireless efforts of everyone involved in transforming the buildings into spaces that would inspire learning, creativity, and innovation and expressed gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Education for their support and collaboration in making the project a reality.
“As we stand in these newly renovated buildings, let us reflect on the importance of education in our society. Education is not merely about acquiring knowledge; it is about shaping character, instilling values, and fostering critical thinking. It is about empowering our youth to dream big and equipping them with the tools they need to turn those dreams into reality. ” he said
He restated his commitment to ensuring that Abia educational institutions are equipped with the necessary resources to provide a world-class education in recognition that investing in education is investing in our future.
The Governor said that this accounted for the allocation of 20% of 2025 budget to the education sector, and that it would not only enhance the learning environment for students but also serve as a catalyst for academic excellence.
Dr. Otti maintained that all must commit to fostering an environment of learning, collaboration, and innovation and reiterated the commitment of the Abia State Government to the advancement of education in the state.
He assured that the state government would continue to work tirelessly to ensure that state educational institutions are not only well-equipped but also serve as beacons of hope and progress for the youth.
The Governor expressed optimism that the renovated buildings at the Federal College of Education, Ofeme Ohuhu, would stand as a testament to the collective efforts and aspirations for a brighter future and tasked stakeholders of the ownership of these facilities on collaboration, maintaining and utilizing these spaces to its fullest potentials.
He further encouraged the students to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, strive for excellence, and be agents of positive change in society.
The Governor equally tasked the management of the institution to continue to inspire and nurture the minds of the students as their role remains pivotal in shaping the future of our state and our nation.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor has assured the management of the institution that their demands would be forwarded to appropriate authorities for consideration and urged traditional rulers in the area to ensure the protection of the school infrastructure.
In her speech, the Chairman, Governing Council of the college, Hajia Rabia Adamu, appreciated the Governor for his kindness in providing the buildings for the commence of academic work. Hajia Adamu assured of commitment in producing quality teachers as teachers are pride building blocks of any education system.
“We will produce quality teachers that will provide the best education to the people in knowing fully aware that His Excellency is committed to educational development as seen in the various programmes he has been implementing since he assumed office”, she said.
Also speaking, the Register of the College, Mrs Coleman Ibe, commended the Governor’s open arms and assistance that has seen the renovation of the structures aimed at providing a conducive learning environment for the students.
The Registrar appreciated the federal government for establishing the institution, recognizing the critical need for teacher education and its role in shaping the nation’s future.
Earlier in his address, the Provost of the College, Dr. Titus Ezeme described Governor Alex Otti as a leader with a midas touch whose unwavering commitment towards education and human capital development continues to inspire hope and progress.
“When I assumed office as the pioneer provost of the college in June 2023 , the realities on the ground were daunting. We inherited buildings that were in a state of disrepair, raising deep concerns about the possibility of taking off as a functional tertiary institution. The task before us seemed herculean, and the path forward appeared uncertain, “he said.
He appealed for the urgent road infrastructure, perimeter fencing for security, lecture theatres and learning spaces, a modern library and ICT infrastructure, student hostels, welfare facilities, and science and language laboratories.
Dr Ezeme commended the Governor for the renovated administrative blocks to house the college’s management and operations, three classroom blocks equipped to provide a conducive learning environment for the pioneer students as well a modern public convenience block to enhance sanitation and comfort.
