Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has hosted a scholarship banquet in honour of 50 beneficiaries of the 2025/2026 Alex Otti Undergraduate Scholarship Programme, presenting each with a cheque of ₦250,000 to support their academic pursuits.
A statement signed by Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor said the annual scheme, which has run for nearly a decade under the Alex Otti Foundation, is designed to support brilliant but financially challenged undergraduates across Nigeria, regardless of state of origin or political affiliation.
Speaking at the event in Umuahia, Governor Otti reaffirmed that the programme is anchored on excellence and transparency, stressing that selection is strictly merit-based through online applications, tests, and oral interviews.
“This is not a political programme. It doesn’t matter whether you know anyone or not; once you merit it, you get it. I urge you to continue to excel, make your families proud, and uphold the values of the Foundation,” he said.
The Governor presented a dummy cheque to the Foundation’s management for onward disbursement of ₦250,000 to each beneficiary, adding that the support would continue annually until their graduation.
In his keynote address, the Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Dr. Christopher Okoro, urged the scholars to view education not only as a tool for knowledge but also as the foundation of responsive and effective leadership. He commended Governor Otti for investing in human capital development through sustained scholarships.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Foundation, Mr. Chidiebere Nnanna, described the programme as a springboard for students to build meaningful careers and impact society positively.
Beneficiaries, including Mr. Godwin Ndubuisi and Miss Chinyere Chijioke, expressed gratitude, noting that the gesture eased the heavy financial burden on their parents.
The banquet was attended by senior government officials, parents, and guardians of the scholars.
