The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emetu, has received the newly elected executives of the 31st administration of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike Student Union Government during a courtesy visit to his office, urging them to see leadership as a call to service and responsibility.
Welcoming the student leaders, the Deputy Governor reminded them that leadership comes with challenges and should not be seen as a position of privilege. According to him, leadership is not a chieftaincy title and those entrusted with it must be prepared to face difficulties while working for the good of those they represent.
He commended the student executives for their initiative to empower fellow students through skills acquisition programmes, describing the effort as a positive step toward addressing social challenges within the campus community.
The Deputy Governor noted that equipping students with practical skills would serve as a catalyst for reducing cultism and other social vices often associated with young people.
He also appreciated the kind remarks made by the visiting executives about the administration of Abia State Governor, Alex Chioma Otti, and assured them that he would brief the Governor on their visit, their proposed programmes, and the planned alumni homecoming to celebrate the 31st administration.
According to him, Governor Otti remains committed to building a government with a human face where every student and young person can thrive without limitations.
He further encouraged the young leaders not to allow their age to become a barrier to effective leadership, stressing that youths are leaders of today and must rise to the responsibility of representing their peers.
The Deputy Governor also urged the new executives not to be intimidated in the discharge of their duties but to remain courageous and continue to speak on behalf of the students they represent.
Earlier in his remarks, the President of the Student Union Government, Hon. Nwoge Bright, thanked the Deputy Governor for granting the new executives an audience. He stated that the administration is built on three key agenda: improving the welfare of students, creating an environment that will promote academic excellence, and maintaining peace and harmony on campus.
Speaking on the welfare initiative, Bright revealed that the union plans to organise skill acquisition programmes in areas such as web designing, digital skills, and videography. He added that the union also intends to provide small start-up grants to participating students to help them sustain themselves while pursuing their studies.
However, he noted that the plans are currently limited due to lack of adequate funding.
He further disclosed that as part of activities marking the 31st administration, the union plans to organise a homecoming event that will bring together alumni of the institution. According to him, the event will provide an opportunity for alumni to mentor students on survival skills and leadership.
Bright also invited the Deputy Governor to serve as the keynote speaker at the event and appealed for financial support to enable the successful execution of the programme.
In her vote of thanks, the Vice President of the new MOUAU Executive,Onwuekwusi Precious, expressed appreciation to the Deputy Governor for receiving the student leaders and listening to their proposals.
She also pledged the union’s support for the administration of Governor Alex Otti, commending the government for the developmental strides in Abia State which, according to her, have positively impacted students.
She concluded by praying for God to continue to bless the state leadership with wisdom and strength to serve the people better.
The courtesy visit ended on a positive note and was attended by aides of the Deputy Governor, including the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Cyril Chukwudi Eke, Mba.
Amah Ijeoma
FIC Correspondent office of the Deputy Governor
13-03-2024
