Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has commended the Methodist Church Nigeria for its initiative to establish a university at Umuimenyi in Bende Local Government Area, pledging the state government’s full support for the project. The governor made the commitment during a meeting with the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Abah, and a delegation of archbishops and bishops at his Nvosi residence in Isiala Ngwa South on Thursday.
“We are very happy about this initiative, and we assure you that we will not withhold any support we can provide,” Otti said. “The Methodist Church has been a pioneer in missionary activities, particularly in Nigeria’s health and education sectors. Establishing a university aligns with your legacy, and as a government that prioritizes education, it would be our pleasure to partner with you.”
Governor Otti highlighted his administration’s commitment to education, noting that 20 percent of the state’s annual budget has been consistently allocated to the sector since he assumed office. He also mentioned ongoing investments in Abia State University (ABSU) to enhance its capacity. To address challenges facing the university project, Otti directed his Deputy Chief of Staff, Barr. Chijioke Nwankwo, to resolve land-grabbing issues in the Lodu, Lohum, and Nkpa areas. He further disclosed that a road to the proposed university site is already under construction.
Earlier, Prelate Dr. Oliver Abah explained that the delegation sought the state government’s partnership to establish the Methodist University, emphasizing the church’s historical role in pioneering educational, health, and social welfare institutions in Nigeria. He appealed for government intervention to address land-grabbing issues hindering the project, noting that the university would boost education and development in Abia State.
Describing Governor Otti as “a capacity governor elected by God and man,” Dr. Abah prayed for the continued success of Otti’s administration.
The proposed Methodist University is expected to contribute significantly to educational advancement in Abia State, aligning with both the church’s legacy and the state government’s development goals.
