Otti Advocates Digital Learning, Approves NOUN Study Centre In Aba
The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has urged Nigerians to embrace digital and distance education, describing it as the future of learning in an increasingly interconnected world.
Governor Otti made the call on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the National Open University of Nigeria, led by its Vice-Chancellor, Uduma Orji Uduma, at the Government House.
He commended the institution for pioneering virtual learning in Nigeria long before it became globally mainstream.
“It is interesting that the National Open University of Nigeria pioneered an effort decades ago when the world had not gone virtual. Today, we hold meetings across continents using digital platforms. That is what learning has become—open, virtual, and technology-driven,” the governor said.
Highlighting the inevitability of digital transformation in education, Otti stressed that platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet have redefined how knowledge is delivered and accessed globally.
“We have no choice but to embrace it,” he added.
As part of efforts to expand access to higher education in the state, the governor approved the establishment of a NOUN study centre in Aba, describing the initiative as essential and timely. He directed the General Manager of the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA) to identify a suitable temporary location for immediate take-off while plans for a permanent site are developed.
Otti also instructed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education to conduct a feasibility study on upgrading the existing NOUN study centre in Umuahia, in response to requests by the university’s management.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education, noting that about 20 percent of the state’s annual budget has been consistently allocated to the sector over the past three years. He further disclosed plans to commission three smart schools within the month as part of ongoing reforms.
Earlier, Professor Uduma said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the state government, particularly in establishing a study centre in Aba to expand access to open and distance learning.
He noted that while NOUN operates over 120 study centres nationwide, only eight are located in the South-East, stressing the need for more centres in the region.
The Vice-Chancellor appealed for government support in securing land for the proposed Aba centre and upgrading the Umuahia facility, adding that such efforts would enable more residents to benefit from flexible learning opportunities.
He also commended Governor Otti’s developmental strides, noting that his people-oriented projects have continued to attract positive attention nationwide.
The meeting was attended by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Eme, alongside other top government officials.
