Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has officially renamed Abia State Polytechnic Aba to Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, in tribute to the late Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the first Executive Governor of the state.
The announcement was made during an interdenominational church service held on Thursday in Umuahia, the state capital, to honour the late statesman.
The polytechnic was established in 1992 under Onu’s leadership, and Governor Otti emphasized that the renaming was a reflection of Onu’s lasting legacy.
He praised Onu for his visionary role in advancing education and creating institutions that contributed to the state’s development.
“Dr. Onu was a leader who understood that true development comes from building strong educational institutions that equip young people with the skills needed to thrive, particularly in the fields of technology, science, education, and agriculture,” Otti remarked during the service.
Otti further highlighted that Onu’s impact went beyond education.
He noted that Onu abolished the divisive indigene/non-indigene policy in Abia’s civil service, thereby fostering a more inclusive environment that enabled citizens based on their skills, not ethnicity, to secure employment.
Under Onu’s administration, Abia experienced significant reforms, including the establishment of the polytechnic and the promotion of educational excellence.
Onu also made history as the first chairman of the Conference of Nigerian Elected Governors, where he played a key role in strengthening the governance body and advancing democratic ideals.
Governor Otti also acknowledged Onu’s pivotal role in the country’s political landscape, particularly during the transition to the Fourth Republic, where he became a major presidential contender.
Otti recalled Onu’s steadfast commitment to national development, democracy, and the well-being of all Nigerians, transcending ethnic and religious divides.
“Dr. Onu was a true patriot and nationalist who always saw beyond sectional interests, believing that every Nigerian had the right to pursue their dreams wherever they chose to live in the country,”
“His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.” Otti added.
