A landmark joint venture project of the Federal Government of Nigeria, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), and the Abia State Government has been formally launched in the state.

This Nigeria’s first Manufacturing Technology University Innovation Pod (Manu-Tech UniPod) was officially launched  at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State.

Speaking during the inauguration, the Vice President, His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, represented by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf OlaTunji Alausa said the establishment of the Manu-Tech UniPod reaffirms the Federal Government’s commitment to repositioning higher education as a catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurship, research commercialisation, and job creation.

Describing it as a “strategic investment in Nigeria’s future,” the Vice President noted that Universities must evolve beyond traditional teaching and research to become hubs for enterprise development, technology transfer, and industrial competitiveness.

In his keynote address titled “Science Meets Enterprise,” Abia State Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, said the siting of the UniPod in Abia speaks to the institutional faith the UNDP and Federal Government have in the State’s potential as an engine of growth and economic prosperity in the region.

He noted that, the faith and efforts the partners have in Abia is yielding tangible results, adding that the event is a demonstration of that, and appreciated the siting of the project in Abia.

“The siting of the Manu-Tech UniPod in Abia speaks eloquently to the institutional faith UNDP and the Federal Government of Nigeria have reposed in our dear State and the potential it holds as an engine of growth and economic prosperity in the region.

The Governor who disclosed that his government supported the UniPod project because it aligns perfectly with the economic development outline of his administration, noted that,

“With the launch of the UniPod, a new interest in qualitative research will develop as scientists, students and everyone connected to the University ecosystem begin to look beyond random and hurried publication of academic papers just to score points for the next promotion cycle.

“The expectation is that research efforts henceforth will be directed at answering questions with practical, everyday applications” Gov. Otti stated.

The Governor thanked all the stakeholders and partners including the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund and the UNDP for their efforts and willpower that gave birth to the transformational project.

“Over the last 3 years, we have found them to be reliable partners which explains our expanding body of joint ventures projects targeting entrepreneurship development, job creation and similar initiatives aimed at opening new layers of economic and social opportunities for our women and young people in particular,” Gov. Otti stated.

The UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, described the launch as part of a broader national innovation ecosystem being developed across Nigeria through the UniPod initiative.

She explained that the programme aims to connect education, research, innovation, enterprise, and manufacturing, enabling Universities to become drivers of economic growth and global competitiveness.

Ms. Attafuah commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Federal Ministry of Education, TETFund, and the Abia State Government for their commitment to innovation-driven development. She particularly extolled Governor Alex Otti for his vision of transforming Abia into Nigeria’s leading hub for manufacturing and industrial innovation.

Earlier in her speech, the Vice-Chancellor of MOUAU, Professor Ursala Akanwa, described the commissioning as a defining moment in the University’s history.

She said the project represents the fulfilment of the institution’s mandate to deploy science, technology, and innovation in advancing agricultural development, manufacturing, and enterprise.

Prof. Akanwa expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, Federal Ministry of Education, UNDP, TETFund, and the Abia State Government for choosing MOUAU to host Nigeria’s first Manufacturing Tech UniPod.

The event was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders. The Manu-Tech UniPod is expected to provide students, researchers, and entrepreneurs with access to advanced manufacturing equipment, prototyping facilities, and industry mentorship to convert research ideas into market-ready products.

… Government Begins Okada Ban Enforcement

Alex Otti’s administration intensifies rescue efforts, rolls out tougher transport regulations and unveils public complaint system to strengthen safety across the state.
The abduction of two school children by a suspected child trafficker in Umuosu Nsulu has cast fresh attention on public safety in Abia State, as the state government officially commenced enforcement of restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations in designated parts of Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia to curb insecurity and protect lives.

Speaking at a press briefing on following the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti at Government House, Umuahia.The Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu, said the enforcement marks another decisive step in the administration’s comprehensive strategy to improve security and public order across the state.

Providing an update on the disturbing incident involving the missing pupils, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (Rtd.), disclosed that the government has activated a coordinated rescue operation involving security agencies within and outside Abia State.

According to Ubah, five pupils accepted a free ride from an unidentified tricycle operator shortly after school at Umuosu Nsulu. The suspect allegedly stopped on the way and sent three of the children to buy fuel before driving off with the remaining two.

Describing the incident as a classic case of child trafficking, Ubah said security agencies initially pursued intelligence that led operatives to Ngor-Okpala in Imo State, but the information turned out to be false.

He added that the Commissioner of Police has established collaboration with neighbouring state commands as investigations intensify.
“This is a matter of grave concern to every parent and to the government. We are deploying every available resource to ensure the children are found safely and those responsible are brought to justice,” he assured.

Against the backdrop of growing security concerns, Prince Kanu announced the commencement of enforcement of restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations in designated areas of the state.
He recalled that the exercise was originally scheduled to begin on June 22 but was postponed by one week to June 29 following Governor Alex Otti’s directive, allowing operators additional time to regularise their operations and comply with the new regulatory framework.

“The government understands that thousands of hardworking citizens depend on commercial motorcycles for their daily livelihood. However, the safety and security of the people must always remain paramount,” the Commissioner said.

He stressed that no economic or political consideration can outweigh the value of human life, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to ensuring that residents can live, work and move freely in a secure environment.
Prince Kanu announced that violators of the restriction would pay a ₦20,000 penalty, while impounded motorcycles would only be released after owners satisfy all statutory registration, documentation and verification requirements.

He clarified that privately owned motorcycles that are duly registered in Abia State remain exempted from the restriction but are prohibited from carrying passengers. Commercial operators permitted to operate within approved jurisdictions, he added, must wear officially approved Abia State Government identification vests.

The Commissioner further disclosed that all motorcycles, tricycles and commercial vehicles operating in the state must be properly registered and documented in line with government regulations.
To reinforce transparency during enforcement, the government has established a toll-free public complaints system through which residents can report cases of misconduct, extortion, abuse or any other infractions involving security personnel and members of the Abia State Harmonized Task Force.

Residents can access the toll-free lines on 0800000232, 08001235555 and 08002225242, while the Abia State Harmonized Task Force can be reached on 08067955559, 08050725566 and 09122223825.
Prince Kanu appealed to transport operators, community leaders and residents to cooperate with the authorities, noting that the policy is designed to protect lives, preserve public peace and create a safer environment for all.

The Commissioner also highlighted ongoing infrastructure development across the state, revealing that the Ministry of Works executed direct labour projects at 14 locations between June 16 and June 29, completing five road projects and adding another to its maintenance programme.
Among the completed projects are the 1.19-kilometre Obikabia–Umueleke Road (Phase One) in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, the 550-metre Uzoma–Ohokobe–Afara-Ohokobe Road to Polycon Junction off Aba Road, Chief Nkoro Street to Udeagbala Road in Aba, rainy season maintenance works on Ojari Road in Arochukwu, and desilting works along Faulks Road in Aba.

He also announced the commencement of the Green Avenue Square project in Aba and disclosed that 24 additional road projects are currently under construction across the state, with contractors making significant progress.
“The state government remains resolute in delivering quality infrastructure while strengthening security and protecting the welfare of every resident,” Prince Kanu stated.

The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting menstrual health, dignity, and equal opportunities for girls and women, calling on stakeholders to work collectively towards ending the stigma, myths, and barriers associated with menstruation.

Speaking at the 2026 World Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day celebration held in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Mrs. Maureen Aghukwa, said menstrual health remains a critical issue that impacts education, public health, gender equality, and human dignity.

Addressing participants at the event, Dr. Aghukwa noted that although menstruation is a natural and healthy part of life, many girls and women still face significant challenges in accessing sanitary products, accurate menstrual health information, and adequate sanitation facilities.
According to her, such challenges often affect the confidence, health, education, and overall well-being of girls and women, making it imperative for governments and communities to take deliberate action.

The Commissioner stated that under the leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, the Abia State Government remains committed to creating an environment where every girl can thrive without discrimination or disadvantage because of her menstrual cycle.
“Menstrual health is not merely a women’s issue; it is a matter of human dignity, public health, education, and social justice,” she emphasized.

Dr. Aghukwa disclosed that the Ministry of Women Affairs has continued to champion policies and programmes aimed at improving the welfare of women and girls across the state. She noted that through partnerships with development agencies, civil society organizations, schools, healthcare providers, and community leaders, efforts are being intensified to expand access to menstrual hygiene education and essential sanitary products.
She encouraged young girls to embrace their womanhood with confidence and never feel ashamed of a natural biological process, urging them to seek accurate information, maintain proper hygiene practices, and freely ask questions whenever guidance is needed.

The Commissioner also appealed to parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to create safe and supportive environments where open discussions on menstrual health can thrive.
She stressed that breaking harmful misconceptions and cultural silence around menstruation is essential to empowering girls and enabling them to achieve their full potential.

“As we commemorate this important day, let us renew our commitment to ensuring that no girl misses school, loses confidence, or suffers indignity because of menstruation,” she said.
Dr. Aghukwa further called on all stakeholders to prioritize menstrual health and hygiene in homes, schools, workplaces, and communities, describing it as a shared responsibility that requires sustained advocacy and collective action.
She expressed appreciation to development partners, sponsors, organizations, and participants whose support continues to advance the cause of menstrual health awareness and gender inclusion in Abia State.

The World Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day celebration brought together government officials, students, teachers, healthcare professionals, civil society groups, and community leaders in a united effort to promote menstrual dignity and ensure that every girl has the opportunity to live, learn, and succeed without barriers.
The event ended with a renewed call for greater awareness, improved access to menstrual hygiene products, and stronger support systems for girls and women across Abia State.