A total of one thousand,eight hundred and six youths (1,086) on Saturday graduated from the 2026 edition of the Abia State Leadership Academy initiated by the Dr Alex Otti administration
Speaking during the graduation ceremony of the 2026 Leadership Training Boot Camp organised by the Abia State Leadership Academy held at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, themed: “Raising Transformational Leaders, Innovators and Change Makers”, Governor, Otti charged them to embrace innovation and ethical leadership as a guide towards greater responsibilities in society.
The Governor urged the graduates to use the knowledge and exposure acquired during the four-week programme to mentor their peers, develop solutions to societal challenges and contribute actively to the development of the state.
He explained that the academy was established in 2025 as part of his administration’s effort to develop a new generation of leaders capable of sustaining the state’s development, disclosing that he has directed the President of the academy to maintain a directory of the graduates and review the ideas contained in their capstone presentations, with a view to supporting viable projects.
Governor pointed out that Non-Abians participated in the programme and described it as a demonstration of total inclusiveness by his administration.
In his speech, the President of the Abia State Leadership Academy, Professor Kenneth Kalu, lauded Governor Alex Otti for establishing the academy as an investment in the future of Abia and noted that the initiative would shape the minds, character and civic consciousness of the youth.
Speaking, the Chairman Civil service Commission, Pastor Dr. Eno Jerry-Eze said the 2026 boot camp was designed to go beyond classroom instruction by equipping participants with practical leadership, innovation and problem-solving skills.
Pst Jerry-Eze said the state partnered with the Enterprise Development Centre of Pan-Atlantic University to develop workbooks and practical sessions that challenged the participants to devise solutions in areas such as fintech, electric transportation, Abia’s development and job creation.
