By STEVE OKO

UMUAHIA— The Vice-Chancellor of Abia State University Uturu (ABSU), Professor Ndukwe Okeudo, has attributed the unprecedented rise in student enrolment at the institution to the education-friendly policies, reforms, and sustained support of Governor Alex Otti.

Professor Okeudo made this assertion on Friday during the university’s 44th matriculation ceremony, noting that ABSU has recorded a steady increase in enrolment since the inception of the Otti administration, which, he said, has accorded priority attention to the education sector.

He disclosed that 7,523 fresh students were admitted for the 2025/2026 academic session, describing the figure as the highest in the university’s history.

“We have recorded an unprecedented upsurge in admissions this year. This achievement reflects the massive transformation of the university under Governor Otti, as well as our resolve to do things the right way,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

The VC commended the Governor for clearing 11 months of salary arrears owed staff and settling outstanding pension arrears for retirees, actions he said had restored confidence and stability within the institution.

He further praised the state government for major infrastructural projects at ABSU, including the construction of a 5,000-bed capacity student hostel, an ultra-modern Faculty of Law complex, and the reconnection of the university to the national power grid, among other interventions.

Addressing the matriculating students, the VC urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to their academic pursuits, warning that the university maintains zero tolerance for cultism, violence, examination malpractice, indecent dressing, and other social vices.

“You are encouraged to make maximum use of the academic facilities and opportunities available to you. There is always a reward for excellence,” he added.

Speaking at the well-attended ceremony, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to transforming ABSU into a leading university in Nigeria.

He also pledged to sustain reforms across the education sector, stating that his government came on board to change the narrative.

The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Eme-Uche, vowed that Abia State would emerge as a reference point for academic excellence under his watch.

In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor, Rt. Hon. Agwu U. Awgu, lauded the Governor’s resolve to position ABSU among the top 10 universities in Nigeria and on the global academic map by focusing on critical performance indices.

He assured students and staff of continued student-friendly policies aimed at promoting a conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and community service.

Speaking also , a Deputy Director at the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Ugo Azubuike, encouraged students to fully embrace the federal students’ loan scheme, stressing that it was designed to ease access to tertiary education for indigent students.

She urged parents to support their wards in accessing the scheme, noting that in countries such as the United States, a significant percentage of students rely on government-backed education loans to fund their studies.

Meanwhile, visitors experienced serious difficulty accessing and exiting the university as massive attendance at the ceremony triggered a traffic gridlock that stretched to Okigwe in Imo State.

Our Correspondent observed several vehicles being servised along the roadside after developing mechanical faults caused by the prolonged traffic congestion.