The Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, launched the AbiaFIRST Education Transformation Programme on Wednesday, a strategic initiative aimed at revamping the education sector in the state.
Speaking at the official launch of the AbiaFIRST Education Transformation Programme on Wednesday, themed Reimagining Education in Abia, Otti warned there will be no room for lobbying in the recruitment of teachers under the AbiaFIRST Education Transformation Programme, insisting that only those who pass the rigorous screening process will be employed.
“We shall be recruiting just about anyone who can pass the rigorous screening test because we are determined to choose the best from the pool that applied.
“I must emphasize that the only criterion for selection is demonstrable evidence that the individual has the character, capacity, and knowledge to teach and mentor the next generation of Ndi Abia.
“So let me apologize in advance for those who will be coming to lobby—there is no lobbying. If you don’t pass, we will not recruit you,” the governor stated.
Otti stressed that education is the foundation of societal progress and that his administration is committed to raising standards by ensuring that only qualified teachers are entrusted with educating the state’s children.
He lamented the neglect of the education sector by past administrations, citing poor learning conditions, inadequate teachers, and the decline of public school enrollment as key challenges his government is working to reverse. He emphasized that Abia must return to a culture of meritocracy, where excellence is rewarded and mediocrity has no place.
The AbiaFIRST Education Transformation Programme, according to the governor, is designed to rebuild schools, train teachers, enhance student learning, and curb examination malpractice, ensuring that Abia becomes a model of educational excellence. He reiterated that the ₦120bn earmarked for education in the 2025 budget will drive major reforms, including the renovation of over 200 schools, curriculum upgrades, and improved teacher welfare.
He urged students to embrace hard work and discipline, as the world no longer rewards mediocrity but skills and proven capacity.
“You will be competing with your peers from China, India, and across the world. If you are not the best, you will not stand a chance,” Otti warned.
Also speaking at the launch, The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, emphasized that the government is intentionally preparing students to compete globally by adopting a radical, innovative, and inclusive approach to education.
“This vision calls for a radical, forward-thinking approach to how we can educate and equip our youth. It emphasizes the need for innovation, reform, and inclusivity in every aspect of our educational system,” Ubochi stated.
He highlighted that the reform is backed by data-driven strategies, including a baseline assessment of 33 years of education in the state, covering 200 schools and 2,000 trained teachers. He reiterated that as part of the initiative, 200 master trainers and 2,000 master teachers have been prepared to lead a cascade training model that will reach over 9,000 teachers across the state.
He further stated that the AbiaFIRST programme, a key component of the transformation, focuses on early childhood development, digital learning, technical and vocational education, and STEAM subjects.
“AbiaFIRST is not just about improving individual schools. It is a complete institutional reform that will transform the way we educate, think about education, and the very future of our youth,” Ubochi explained.
The commissioner also stressed the importance of community involvement, stating that traditional leaders, parents, and school-based committees are actively engaged in the reform process.
“Education is a collective responsibility. It is only through engagement and active participation that we can realize the full potential of this transformation,” he said.
Ubochi also called on international organizations, donor agencies, and education stakeholders to collaborate with the government to achieve a world-class education system in Abia saying, “The future of Abia is in our hands. Together, we will build an education system that is truly world-class.”
