Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has unveiled a series of opportunities for outstanding graduates of Abia State University, including automatic employment, postgraduate scholarships, and financial support for business ideas.
The announcement was made during the university’s combined 30th to 32nd convocation ceremony, where the governor outlined plans to reward academic excellence and retain top talent within the state.
Otti directed the university management to begin the process of employing all first-class graduates as graduate assistants after they complete the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). He added that the opportunity would also be extended to the best graduating students across departments who meet the required academic standard.
In addition, the governor approved postgraduate scholarships for all first-class graduates, covering studies up to doctoral level in any public university within Nigeria. The offer, he noted, is tied to their willingness to take up teaching roles when required.
Beyond academics, Otti also moved to support young innovators by setting aside ₦200 million to fund viable business ideas. Graduates with proposals, particularly in agriculture, ICT, and clean energy, have been invited to apply before the April 30, 2026 deadline.
To further absorb skilled graduates into the workforce, the governor directed the Head of Service to identify positions within the state civil service for up to 100 exceptional individuals, especially in critical sectors such as education, health, and technology.
At the event, the overall best graduating student, Oluchi Etumsi, received a personal cash reward of ₦5 million from the governor in recognition of her academic performance.
Otti also congratulated recipients of honorary awards at the ceremony, urging them to continue upholding the values associated with their recognition.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening the education sector, noting that sustained investment in human capital remains key to the state’s long-term development.
