By Chinenye Onwusonye
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has approved automatic lecturing appointments for all first-class graduates of Abia State University (ABSU), alongside postgraduate scholarships up to doctorate level and a N200 million business support grant.
In a statement signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, and dated March 27, 2026, the announcement followed the governor’s address at the university’s 30th to 32nd combined convocation ceremony held on Friday.
The governor disclosed that the first-class graduates would be employed as Graduate Assistants, subject to the completion of their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), adding that the opportunity would also be extended to top-performing students across departments with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 4.25.
He further announced that all first-class graduates from the three convocations would receive postgraduate scholarships to any public university in Nigeria up to PhD level, provided they accept the teaching positions offered.
In addition, the governor directed the State Head of Service to identify vacancies within the civil service that could absorb 100 outstanding graduates from the combined sets, with priority given to those in critical fields such as Education, Computer Science, Statistics, and Health Sciences.
As part of efforts to promote entrepreneurship, the governor revealed that N200 million has been earmarked to support up to 100 graduates with viable business ideas, particularly in agriculture, ICT, and clean energy. Interested applicants are expected to submit their proposals electronically on or before April 30, 2026.
Governor Otti also presented a personal cash award of N5 million to the overall best graduating student, Mrs. Oluchi Etumsi, in recognition of her academic excellence.
He congratulated other honorees, including Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Allen Onyema, and Stella Okoli, urging them to uphold the values of excellence and service associated with their recognition.
The governor emphasized the importance of education in societal development, noting that his administration remains committed to repositioning ABSU to meet global standards. He also flagged off the reconstruction of the university’s International Secondary School.
In their separate remarks, the Chancellor, Barr. Mrs. Catherine Uju-Ifejika, Pro-Chancellor, Rt. Hon. Agwu U. Agwu, and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ndukwe Okeudo, commended the governor for his support, highlighting improvements in staff welfare, infrastructure, and ongoing development projects within the institution.
The convocation ceremony was attended by vice chancellors of other universities, academics, and senior government officials.
