Governor of Abia State, *Dr. Alex Otti*, has urged 1,086 graduates of the 2026 Abia State Leadership Academy Youth Leadership Boot Camp to see themselves as solution-bearers and drivers of the _New Abia_ project.
The Governor gave the charge on Saturday at the graduation ceremony held at the *International Conference Centre, Umuahia*.
“It was indeed a joyous occasion as I addressed 1,086 bright young minds,” Governor Otti said.
“I reminded them that they are not returning home as ordinary citizens, but as bearers of solutions, drivers of innovation, and agents of transformation. The New Abia project is a transgenerational journey, and these young leaders are now active partners in shaping it.”
The Governor commended the leadership of the Academy and its partners for the success of the programme. He specifically acknowledged *Prof. Kenneth Kalu*, President of the Abia State Leadership Academy, and *Dr. Nneka Okekaru*, Director of the Enterprise Development Centre, Pan-Atlantic University, for their dedication.
He also appreciated *Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe*, President of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers, NCRIB, the *Nigerian Naval College of Accounts and Finance*, and the *Management of Government College Umuahia* for their contributions.
Governor Otti singled out *Ms. Roseline Faridat Abdusalam* for special recognition, describing her as one of the outstanding participants whose success reflects the state’s inclusive policy.
“Her success exemplifies our inclusive policy that ‘if you live in Abia, you are from Abia,’” he stated.
In his address to the graduates, the Governor gave three directives:
1. *Establish mentoring clusters*
2. *Share the knowledge you have gained*
3. *Carry the light of excellence into your communities, schools, and workplaces*
“Your choices will define the future of Abia. Stand firm, act with distinction, and let your achievements justify the confidence reposed in you,” he told them.
“Congratulations once again. The journey has just begun.”
The Youth Leadership Boot Camp is part of the Abia State Government’s strategy to build a pipeline of young leaders equipped with skills in governance, entrepreneurship, and civic responsibility to drive sustainable development in the state.
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