According to Punch, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has announced the renaming of the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, in honor of the late Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the first governor of the state.

The announcement was made on Thursday during a commendation service held at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia. Onu, who passed away in April at the age of 72, also served as the Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Governor Otti praised Onu’s significant contributions to both the state and the nation, highlighting his role in the establishment of educational institutions in Abia, including the Abia State Polytechnic, the Abia State College of Education (Technical), and his support for the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture.

Otti emphasized Onu’s strategic leadership, noting how his efforts in founding these institutions contributed to the state’s development and economic growth.

In addition to his educational contributions, Otti reflected on Onu’s patriotic decision in 1999 to forgo his presidential ambition for national unity, showing his commitment to Nigeria’s democratic future. Otti further stated that Onu’s death had left a significant void in both the political and social landscapes of Abia.

The event, which was attended by dignitaries including the chairman of the National Burial Planning Committee, Anyim Pius Anyim, also featured a homily by Bishop Michael Ukpong of Umuahia Catholic Diocese, who lauded Onu for his positive impact on the community. The renaming of the polytechnic aims to immortalize Onu’s legacy and contributions to the state’s progress.