By Peter Omopo
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has announced automatic employment for first-class graduates of Abia State University, Uturu, alongside postgraduate scholarships up to doctoral level.
The governor made the announcement on Friday during the institution’s combined 30th to 32nd convocation ceremony, describing the initiative as part of efforts to reward academic excellence and strengthen the education sector.
Otti said all first-class graduates would be retained as graduate assistants, subject to the completion of the National Youth Service Corps scheme. He added that the offer would also extend to the best graduating students across departments with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 4.25.
He further disclosed that beneficiaries would receive postgraduate scholarships to any public university in Nigeria up to PhD level, provided they accept the teaching appointments.
In addition, the governor directed the state Head of Service to identify positions within the civil service for 100 outstanding graduates from the three sets. He noted that priority would be given to those in critical fields such as education, computer science, statistics, and health sciences.
As part of measures to encourage entrepreneurship, Otti also earmarked N200 million to support up to 100 graduates with innovative business ideas. He urged interested beneficiaries to submit proposals, particularly in agriculture, ICT, and clean energy, before the April 30, 2026 deadline.
The governor congratulated the graduating students and presented a personal cash award of N5 million to the overall best student, Oluchi Etumsi.
He also extended congratulations to honorary award recipients, including Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Allen Onyema, and Stella Okoli, urging them to continue upholding the values associated with their recognition.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to education, Otti said investments in the sector remain vital for sustainable development. He also flagged off the reconstruction of the Abia State University International Secondary School.
In her remarks, Chancellor Catherine Uju-Ifejika commended the governor for his support, while Pro-Chancellor Agwu U. Agwu described the intervention as a step towards repositioning the institution globally.
Earlier, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ndukwe Okeudo praised the state government for improving staff welfare, including the clearance of salary arrears and prompt payment of wages. He also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including new hostels, road construction, solar-powered streetlights, and additional academic facilities.
The convocation ceremony was attended by academics, vice-chancellors from other institutions, and senior government officials.
