Abia State Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has congratulated graduates of Clifford University, Ihie, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, urging them to remain resilient, determined and financially disciplined as they navigate life beyond the University.
Governor Otti gave the charge on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at the University’s 7th Convocation Ceremony, where he encouraged the graduates to remain focused on their aspirations, overcome setbacks and pursue success with determination.
The Governor, who drew inspiration from his own experience as a graduate about 37 years ago, said the challenges confronting young people should not deter them from achieving their goals.
“As you go out there, you will encounter challenges, but I encourage you to be tough, resilient and never give up. Tough times, they say, do not last, but tough people do,” Gov. Otti stated.
The Governor expressed confidence in the ability of the graduates to succeed and urged them to remain steadfast as they embark on the next phase of their lives.
“As you leave this University, you must understand that the road ahead may be tough, but you can still succeed. I pray that you will find favour as you step into the world and pursue your dreams,” Gov. Otti added.
The State Chief Executive also congratulated award recipients, particularly Lady Akudo Nwabuogu, whom he acknowledged for her support to Clifford University during its formative years.
Gov. Otti disclosed that he received a telephone call from Dr. Deji Adeleke around midnight on Saturday, during which Adeleke sent his regards to the University community and expressed regret at his inability to attend the ceremony.
Addressing the graduates directly, the Governor warned against indiscriminate borrowing, urging them to exercise caution when presented with loan offers as they begin their careers.
“Do not spend what you do not have. As you go out there, people will tempt you with loans, but do not allow debt to take you down,” Gov. Otti advised.
The Governor reiterated his felicitation to the graduates and other award recipients, expressing optimism that they would make meaningful contributions to society.
Also speaking, the member representing Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu, who was among the graduates and earned a First Class degree in Law, emphasized the importance of resilience in the pursuit of academic excellence.
Hon. Iheonunekwu said age should not constitute a barrier to education, thanking Governor Otti and other distinguished guests for honouring the University with their presence.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Eme Uche, said the Gov. Otti’s administration has created an enabling environment for educational institutions in the State to develop and compete favourably.
She congratulated the graduates and urged them to apply the knowledge acquired during their studies, embrace creativity and seek innovative solutions to societal challenges.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Ceremony Organizing Committee of the University, Dr. Ezebunwa Ubani, expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for attending the ceremony despite his busy schedule.
Dr. Ubani also thanked parents and guardians for entrusting their children to the University, noting that their support enabled the institution to mould the graduates into responsible members of society.
He urged the graduates to remain proud of their education, uphold the values of the institution and serve as worthy ambassadors wherever they find themselves.
“Remember where you are coming from. Go out into the world and shine,” he told the graduates.
Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of awards of recognition to distinguished individuals, including Lady Akudo Nwabuogu, in acknowledgement of their contributions and support to the University.
The Governor was accompanied to the occasion by the member representing Isialangwa North/South Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, the member representing Isialangwa South State Constituency, Hon. Rowland Chikwendu, among other senior appointees of the Government.
Ctz. UKOHA, NJOKU UKOHA
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State.
October 25, 2026.
