Abia State Polytechnic Renamed: Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba

Governor Otti Honors Late Ogbonnaya Onu with Abia Polytechnic Renaming

“We as a state have decided to immortalise him by renaming the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba after him...”

Late Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Abia's first civilian governor and former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, honored with Abia State Polytechnic renaming. His legacy includes establishing key institutions and promoting national unity.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has renamed the Abia State Polytechnic in Aba after the late Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the first civilian governor of the state. This heartfelt tribute acknowledges Onu's remarkable contributions to Abia's development and his enduring legacy.

Onu's Lasting Impact

Dr. Onu's accomplishments include:

Establishing Key Institutions: Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, Abia State College of Education Technical, Arochukwu, and the National Ambassador Newspapers and Broadcasting Corporation of Abia State

Economic Development: Attracting the Federal University of Agriculture, Umudike (now Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike) 

Infrastructure Development: Building the Abia Tower of Peace and establishing BCA and National Ambassador 

A Fitting Tribute

Governor Otti's gesture recognizes Onu's dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to the people of Abia. The renaming of the polytechnic serves as a testament to Onu's enduring influence and inspiration to future generations.

“We as a state have decided to immortalise him by renaming the Abia State Polytechnic, Aba after him,” Otti said.

“The polytechnic will henceforth be known as Dr Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba.”

Dr. Onu's vision also led to the founding of the Abia State College of Education (Technical) in 1993, which has since become a leading institution for technical education. Additionally, his efforts played a crucial role in the establishment of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUAU) in 1992 , a federal university specializing in agricultural education.

These institutions have had a lasting impact on Abia State, providing opportunities for growth, development, and innovation. Dr. Onu's legacy continues to inspire future generations, and Governor Otti's tribute ensures his contributions are remembered and celebrated.

Key Institutions Founded by Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu:

• Abia State Polytechnic
• Abia State College of Education (Technical)
• Michael Okpara University of Agriculture (MOUAU)

“The simultaneous establishment of these institutions in the three senatorial districts of the state speaks to Dr Onu's distinction as a strategic leader,” Otti added.

“He was a leader that understood the connection between institutions of learning and the development of the critical manpower necessary for holistic and widespread economic growth.”

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu's remarkable display of patriotism in 1999 is truly inspiring. He selflessly stepped down as the presidential flagbearer for the All People's Party to unite Nigeria, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the country's future. This noble act showcased his leadership and dedication to the nation's well-being, even if it meant putting aside personal ambitions.

Some of his notable achievements include:

Abolishing the State-of-Origin Syndrome: Dr. Onu eliminated this divisive policy in Abia State, promoting unity and equality among citizens.

Establishing Key Institutions: He founded the Abia State Polytechnic, College of Technical Education, and attracted the Michael Okpara Federal University of Agriculture to the state.

Advancing Technology: Dr. Onu introduced computers in public schools and initiated the establishment of a Technology Village.

Promoting National Unity: His leadership and vision helped bridge gaps among Nigerians, earning him recognition as a champion of national integration.

“He loved the country and its democratic future more than his desire to occupy the exalted seat of the presidency,” Otti noted.

“Dr Onu was by every measure, qualified to serve this country as its president at the dawn of the Fourth Republic and had a good run at it.

“He only had to let go of his ambition when circumstances contrived against it but he still found other veritable ways of serving the country he loved so dearly.

“He was an important voice for democracy, a true nationalist and patriot who saw beyond the narrow prism of ethnicity and religion.

“He saw every Nigerian as a citizen who has the right to pursue their economic and social aspirations from any part of the country, unrestricted by individual or institutional biases.”

Governor Alex Otti has paid tribute to the late Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, acknowledging the immense void left by his passing, which will be extremely challenging to fill. Otti described Onu's demise as a significant loss, not only for his family but also for the people of Abia State, highlighting the lasting impact of his leadership and legacy.

Otti prayed for divine strength and comfort for Onu's family and the people of Abia State, urging them to draw inspiration from his exemplary life of service, integrity, and patriotism. He emphasized the importance of emulating Onu's values, which defined his remarkable career as a scholar, statesman, and visionary leader.

Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu's Enduring Legacy

Some notable achievements of Dr. Onu include:

Establishing Key Institutions: Abia State Polytechnic, Abia State College of Education Technical, and attracting the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture to the state 

Promoting National Unity: His leadership and vision helped bridge gaps among Nigerians, earning him recognition as a champion of national integration

Advancing Education and Technology: Onu introduced computers in public schools and initiated the establishment of a Technology Village

By renaming the Abia State Polytechnic after Dr. Onu, Governor Otti hopes to preserve his legacy and inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps.