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The All-Africa Students Union (AASU) has lauded Governor Alex Otti and the Abia State Government for what it described as a bold and visionary commitment to education following the allocation of 20 percent of the state’s 2026 budget to the sector.

In an official commendation issued by the President of the Union, HE Osisiogu Osikenyi Enyinnaya, AASU expressed profound satisfaction with the government’s decision, noting that it reflects an unwavering resolve to secure a brighter future for young people in Abia.

According to the statement, the Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Otti, earmarked N203.2 billion—representing one-fifth of the total 2026 budget—to revitalise and expand the education sector.

The allocation covers teachers’ salaries, the construction of 17 model primary and secondary schools across all local government areas, establishment of three technical colleges, as well as the provision of staff quarters and ICT laboratories in more than 100 existing public schools.

AASU described these investments as a clear demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to human capital development and a deliberate strategy to equip the next generation with the skills and knowledge necessary for sustainable progress.

The continental students union noted that prioritising education at this scale lays a strong foundation for long-term socio-economic transformation.

The commendation also highlighted the state’s extensive plans for tertiary education, including major upgrades at Abia State University (ABSU) and Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic.

At ABSU, projects include a 5,000-capacity hostel, a new cafeteria, renovations of existing hostels, and the acquisition of modern engineering equipment worth ₦800 million. The institution has also secured full accreditation for key programmes such as Law, Agriculture and Mass Communication.

Similarly, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic is undergoing significant expansion with the construction of a 10,000-capacity hostel, introduction of new academic programmes in Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security, and accreditation of 14 additional programmes.

The government also approved staff promotions—the first since 2008—and awarded ₦1 million business grants to 150 exceptional graduates to support entrepreneurship and innovation.

HE Osisiogu Osikenyi stated that these achievements underscore Governor Otti’s understanding of the transformative power of education in shaping the future of Abia State. He added that the Union is confident the initiative will nurture a generation of enlightened and empowered citizens capable of driving development across various sectors.

AASU, which has championed quality education, good governance and democratic values across Africa since its establishment in 1972, reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring and supporting genuine efforts that advance educational excellence. The Union pledged to continue partnering with governments that demonstrate sincere dedication to delivering the dividends of democracy.

The commendation concluded with a strong endorsement of Governor Otti’s vision for a more prosperous Abia, describing the state’s renewed investment in education as a beacon of hope for young people and a model for governments across the continent.

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