WHY OTTI THINKS EDUCATION DEMANDS MORE THAN CERTIFICATES

At the 22nd Convocation Ceremony of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic Aba, Governor Alex C. Otti, OFR, delivered a powerful message that went far beyond routine graduation speeches. His central argument was clear and compelling: education is not a trophy—it is a responsibility.

Governor Otti reminded the graduating class that true education liberates the mind, deepens reasoning, and equips individuals to see beyond themselves. It is not merely about earning a certificate, but about gaining the clarity, courage, and competence to transform society.

He celebrated the grit and determination of the graduates, applauded their families, and commended the Polytechnic management for the transformation ongoing at the Osisioma permanent site. But more importantly, he laid out concrete commitments to ensure that education in Abia leads to real opportunities:

• ₦100 million in fresh business grants for graduates with distinction,
• A 6-month technical field training programme for 200 skilled young people, and
• A promise that the New Abia will no longer allow its brightest minds to wander without support.

Otti’s message was both inspiring and challenging. He reminded the young graduates that success is never a straight line, and failure is never the end — “you only lose when you give up.” With resilience, creativity, and a sense of duty, he urged them to step forward as innovators, leaders, and contributors to a better Abia.

In Otti’s vision, education is the fuel for development — but only when those who possess it embrace the responsibility to build, uplift, and lead.

The New Abia is calling. And today’s graduates have been handed the torch.

multiplefingersnews.com.ng