Governor Alex Otti Vows to Transform ABSU and Foster Financial Independence.

 Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has pledged to address the challenges plaguing Abia State University (ABSU) in Uturu, aiming to elevate it to a leading institution in Nigeria's higher education landscape. During a meeting with executives of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Otti emphasized the need for ABSU to become financially independent and urged the university to explore innovative strategies to generate revenue.

Otti's directive to ABSU was clear: cease reliance on external funding and instead focus on self-sustainability. He underscored the importance of universities, especially established ones like ABSU, operating independently of government subvention. Otti emphasized the need for ABSU ASUU to brainstorm ways to contribute to the university's financial autonomy, promising his support in their endeavors.

The governor expressed astonishment over the salary differentials and arrears owed to ABSU lecturers, highlighting the financial strain experienced by educational institutions. He stressed the importance of research-driven initiatives within the university to generate resources and foster financial stability.

Governor Otti outlined plans to strengthen corporate governance at ABSU, including the formation of a visitation panel and addressing ASUU's requests for increased subvention. He emphasized the need for collective efforts to transform ABSU into a financially independent institution, urging stakeholders to shift from a mentality of dependency to one of innovation and self-reliance.

In response, Dr. Happiness Uduak, the ASUU zonal coordinator, commended Governor Otti's commitment to development projects in Abia State and the university community. She highlighted the pressing issues faced by ABSU, including outstanding salaries and infrastructural challenges, urging the government to intervene through measures like setting up a visitation panel and addressing salary differentials.

Governor Otti's vision for ABSU reflects a broader effort to revitalize higher education institutions in Abia State and promote sustainable growth. By fostering financial independence and addressing systemic challenges, Otti aims to position ABSU as a model for educational excellence and self-sufficiency in Nigeria.