By CHARLES IWUOHA

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has challenged the Governing Council and Management of Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU) to elevate the institution?s ranking to at least the top three universities in Nigeria.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a two-day retreat at the Aguiyi Ironsi Conference Centre, Umuahia, Otti expressed concern over ABSU?s current position at number 37 in national rankings.

The retreat, themed ?Building the New Abia State University of Our Dream, Through Excellence and Service: The Governing Council Approach,? focused on strategies to reposition the university.

Governor Otti emphasized that ABSU, as Nigeria?s second state university, should not lag behind, urging stakeholders to devise a clear vision and roadmap to achieve a top-tier status.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Otti unveiled plans to construct new Faculty of Law and Faculty of Agriculture buildings in Uturu.

This decision follows a report revealing that existing structures meant for these faculties are in severe disrepair and unfit for academic use.

He assured that construction will begin soon, with completion expected before the end of the current academic year. Until then, the faculties will remain at their current locations to avoid disruptions to academic activities.

The governor also raised concerns over the deplorable state of student hostels at ABSU, vowing to renovate them to ensure students have access to safe and comfortable living conditions. Additionally, he announced that contractors for the Abia Airport in Nsulu will commence work on the runway next Tuesday.

Highlighting the importance of alumni involvement, Otti urged ABSU?s management to engage past students in efforts to enhance the university?s development.

He reaffirmed his administration?s commitment to merit-based appointments, stating that only the best hands have been selected to drive reforms at the institution.

He also disclosed that the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is finalizing a master plan for Aba and Umuahia, a key step in the state?s infrastructural development.

Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Emeh Uche, noted that the Otti-led administration inherited a broken university system, prompting urgent reforms. She highlighted the governor?s decision to implement a single-campus policy for ABSU, aligning with recommendations from a visitation panel.

Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the ABSU Governing Council, Rt. Hon. Agwu U. Agwu, Ph.D, described the retreat as a crucial platform for addressing pressing challenges and transforming the university into a globally competitive institution.

He commended Governor Otti for assembling a team of seasoned technocrats to spearhead the university?s progress.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ndukwe Okudo, lauded the administration?s commitment to education, citing the 20% budgetary allocation for the sector in 2024 and 2025.

He also praised initiatives such as free and compulsory basic education, large-scale teacher recruitment, and widespread school reconstruction efforts across the state.