I won’t convert any Abia institution to university – Otti
Abia State Governor Rules Out University Conversions for Higher Institutions
U MUAHIA, Abia State — Governor Alex Otti reaffirmed on Friday that the Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic in Aba and the Abia State College of Education Technical in Arochukwu, among other state-owned higher education institutions, will not be converted into universities.
Otti’s comments came in response to reports alleging that the previous administration had converted three institutions into universities prior to leaving office. He stated that he was unaware of any such actions taken by his predecessors.
The governor emphasized that maintaining multiple universities would place an undue financial and administrative burden on the state. He expressed concern that the duplication of universities could hinder the quality of education received at these institutions by diverting necessary funding and resources.
Otti noted that existing institutions, such as Abia State University in Uturu and privately owned universities, are capable of meeting the educational needs of the state effectively.
“If you establish three universities, that requires three vice-chancellors, three registrars, and three separate administrative buildings,” Otti pointed out. “I will not advocate for the duplication of universities when we have one we can adequately fund and optimize.”
The governor reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the existing higher learning institutions receive proper financial support while retaining their current statuses.
