Otti urges Rhema University graduates to uphold Abia State’s reputation

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has called on graduates of Rhema University, Aba, to represent the state positively through their conduct, professional achievements and contributions to society.

Otti gave the charge during the university’s ninth to 13th combined convocation ceremony in Aba, where he congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to follow the examples of accomplished individuals from Abia State.

The governor also praised the university’s Chancellor and founder of Living Word Ministries International, Bro Emma Okorie, for establishing the institution and contributing to educational development and human capacity building.

He said Abia State had produced distinguished scholars and professionals whose achievements demonstrated the intellectual potential of its people, adding that the government’s responsibility was to create an environment where talented individuals could thrive.

Otti particularly recognised Professor Ogwo E. Ogwo for his contributions to higher education and university administration, including his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of Abia State University from 2000 to 2005.

He urged the graduates to draw inspiration from accomplished Abians and use their knowledge and skills to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields.

The governor also announced plans by the state government to honour prominent academics of Abia origin in recognition of their contributions to scholarship and professional development.

Among those scheduled to be celebrated is Professor Benson Oluikpe, an Abia-born professor of English, whom the government intends to host in honour of his 90th birthday.

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Otti further disclosed that the government planned to recognise an Abia-born professor of biomedical sciences based in the United States in December, adding that the scholar had agreed to return to Nigeria for the occasion.

He also announced plans to celebrate Professor Ogbonnaya Onwudike, the Vice-Chancellor of Rhema University, on his 80th birthday next year.

According to the governor, the proposed celebrations reflect his administration’s determination to recognise individuals whose academic achievements and professional accomplishments have enhanced the reputation of Abia State.

Speaking at the ceremony, Okorie reaffirmed Rhema University’s commitment to producing graduates equipped with knowledge, strong character and values that would enable them to contribute positively to society.

He also commended Professor Nnenna Oti for her commitment to upholding ethical principles, citing her conduct during the 2023 governorship election in Abia State as an example of integrity and principled leadership.

The university’s Pro-Chancellor, Professor Ogwo E. Ogwo, expressed confidence that the graduating students would uphold the institution’s values and bring honour to their families and the university through their future endeavours.

Ogwo also announced that Rhema University had graduated its first set of medical doctors, describing the development as an important achievement in the institution’s growth and academic journey.

He reiterated the university’s zero-tolerance stance on cultism and other forms of social misconduct, urging the graduates to become responsible citizens who would contribute to addressing societal challenges.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ogbonnaya Onwudike, described the convocation as evidence of the university’s role in transforming lives and preparing graduates to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the wider society.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on Sister Chinyere Emma Okorie and Professor Nnenna Oti in recognition of their contributions and accomplishments.