RismadarVoice Reporters, May 23, 2026
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has stated that his administration will not convert state-owned higher institutions, including Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, and Abia State College of Education Technical, Arochukwu, into universities.
The governor clarified on Friday in Umuahia while reacting to reports suggesting that the previous administration converted three institutions into universities before leaving office.
Otti said he was not aware of any such move by the immediate past government and stressed that creating additional universities could place unnecessary financial and administrative burdens on the state.
According to him, operating several universities would require separate leadership structures, including vice chancellors, registrars, and administrative systems, which could stretch available resources.
“If you set up three universities, you have three vice chancellors, three registrars and three administration buildings,” Otti stated.
He argued that multiplying universities often reduces the quality of attention and funding available to institutions, adding that Abia State University, Uturu, alongside privately owned universities, already provides educational opportunities within the state.
The governor maintained that his administration’s focus would remain on strengthening and adequately funding existing institutions rather than changing their status.
