Empowered To Soar: Otti Charges 4,000 Graduates Of Fashion Future Programme To Lead Creative Economy

Governor Alex C. Otti of Abia State has charged over 4,000 graduates of the 2026 Fashion Future Programme (FFP) to harness their creativity, discipline, and skills to build sustainable careers and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.

Speaking on Wednesday at the graduation ceremony held at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba, the governor described the initiative as a transformative platform that goes beyond talent development to equip young people with the capacity to innovate, create value, and compete globally.

Otti emphasized that the progress of any society is rooted in the strength of ideas driving its leadership, noting that meaningful employment, economic security, and prosperity can only be achieved through sound and forward-thinking policies. He added that while ideas are critical, discipline and execution remain essential for achieving greatness.

The governor commended the structure and delivery of the Fashion Future Programme, implemented by Ethnocentrique Limited with support from the Mastercard Foundation and the Abia State Government, describing it as a model for holistic empowerment. According to him, the programme aligns with his administration’s vision of developing human capacity by nurturing creativity, enterprise, and innovation among youths.

He congratulated the graduands for successfully completing the programme and encouraged them to explore the limitless opportunities ahead, stressing that they now possess the tools needed to shape their future.

Otti also expressed deep appreciation to the Mastercard Foundation for its investment in youth development and for choosing Aba, widely regarded as a hub of African fashion and craftsmanship, as the programme’s host city. He further acknowledged the contributions of Ethnocentrique Limited, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Irunna Ejibe, for delivering what he described as excellence in training, mentorship, and coordination.

The governor extended gratitude to the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for providing technical guidance through its Skills Qualifications Framework, as well as to various state ministries and stakeholders whose support ensured the programme’s success.

Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Otti noted that the FFP complements the state’s broader youth empowerment strategy, which includes programmes such as TechRise and the Abia Leadership Academy. He reiterated that skill acquisition remains a critical solution to unemployment, poverty, and social vices, as it enables individuals to create wealth and contribute to economic development.

He further disclosed that the state government has consistently allocated about 20 percent of its annual budget to education over the past three years, underscoring its commitment to building a knowledge-driven economy.

Looking ahead, the governor announced plans to launch an integrated campaign to promote Made-in-Abia products, particularly fashion and lifestyle accessories produced in Aba. He also revealed that the government would invest in upgrading production hubs and ensuring the full operational capacity of key facilities such as ENASCO to boost industrial output.

Otti assured investors that Abia State is open for business, citing ongoing improvements in infrastructure, security, and the business environment as indicators of the state’s readiness for economic expansion.

He concluded by urging continued support for the graduates as they begin their professional journeys, emphasizing that sustained mentorship and guidance will be crucial to their long-term success.

The Fashion Future Programme is widely regarded as a strategic intervention aimed at strengthening the fashion value chain, from design and production to market access, while positioning young entrepreneurs for global relevance.