₦2bn TETFund Boost: Otti Hails Abia Poly, Unveils Bold Education and Infrastructure Reforms

Governor Alex Otti has applauded the management of Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, for securing a ₦2 billion Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Special High Impact Intervention grant, describing it as a landmark achievement for both the institution and the state.

Speaking at the August edition of his monthly media parley, “Governor Otti Speaks”, the Governor noted that only 18 state polytechnics across Nigeria benefited from the fund, with Abia Polytechnic emerging as the sole beneficiary in the entire South-East.

“We are beneficiaries of a ₦2 billion TETFund Special High Impact Fund. Out of 18 state polytechnics nationwide, we are the only one in the South-East. I congratulate the Rector and his team for working hard to earn us this pride of place,” Otti said.

The Governor explained that the funds would support the development of the Osisioma campus of the Polytechnic, including lecture theatres, laboratories, hostels, and other facilities. He announced that the campus will commence operations in the next academic session, while the existing Aba campus is also undergoing major renovations.

Otti further revealed that new contemporary courses such as Artificial Intelligence and Robotics are being introduced at the Polytechnic to align with global academic trends.

Broad Education Reforms Across Abia

The Governor also highlighted ongoing upgrades at the Abia State College of Education Technical, Arochukwu—recently reaccredited and now receiving infrastructure improvements—as well as Abia State University, Uturu, where new Faculties of Agriculture and Law are being established.

He disclosed that ₦14.43 billion has already been spent this year on the renovation and upgrade of public schools. So far, 20 Smart Schools are under construction while 221 primary and secondary schools are undergoing rehabilitation. In addition, 5,394 new teachers have been recruited to strengthen the education system.

Healthcare, Infrastructure, and Youth Empowerment

Beyond education, Otti reeled out updates on other critical sectors:

Healthcare: 120 out of 200 Primary Healthcare Centers under Project Ekwueme have been rehabilitated, 22 General Hospitals are being upgraded, and 771 healthcare professionals are set to be recruited. Over 101,000 residents have enrolled in the State’s Health Insurance Scheme. Infrastructure: About 50 road projects are ongoing across the state, complemented by urban renewal efforts such as road lighting, tree planting, and new bus terminals in Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia. The state is also finalising the takeover of Umuahia Electricity Supply and has established an independent power project to deliver 15 megawatts for Abia State University and surrounding areas. Youth Empowerment: Ongoing programmes include a Leadership Academy for 8,000 youths, the TechRise and fashion enterprise initiatives, and a ₦2 billion interest-free cooperative loan scheme.

Governor Otti stressed that his administration prefers sustainable empowerment initiatives over palliatives, assuring that many projects will be ready for commissioning before the end of the quarter.

“We are determined to fix schools, hospitals, roads, empower the youths, and build an economy that runs beyond daylight hours,” he affirmed.