By our Reporter
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, has called on Nigerians to embrace digital and distance learning, describing it as the future of education in a rapidly evolving world.
The governor made the call while receiving a delegation from the National Open University of Nigeria, led by its Vice-Chancellor, Uduma Orji Uduma, at his office.
Otti commended NOUN for pioneering virtual learning in Nigeria long before it became globally mainstream, noting that technological advancement has transformed how people learn and interact.
“It is interesting that the National Open University of Nigeria pioneered an effort decades ago when the world had not gone virtual. Today, we hold meetings across continents through digital platforms. That is what learning has become—distance, open, and virtual,” he said.
The governor stressed that the shift towards digital platforms such as Zoom and Google Meet underscores the need for Nigerians to fully embrace modern learning systems.
As part of efforts to expand access to education, Otti approved the establishment of a NOUN study centre in Aba, describing the move as necessary and timely. He directed the General Manager of the Greater Aba Development Authority to identify a suitable temporary location for immediate take-off, pending the development of a permanent site.
He also instructed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education to conduct a feasibility study on upgrading the existing Umuahia study centre in response to the university’s request.
Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to education, revealing that about 20 per cent of the state’s annual budget has been allocated to the sector over the past three years. He added that three smart schools would soon be commissioned as part of efforts to improve educational infrastructure.
Earlier, Uduma said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the state government, particularly in establishing a study centre in Aba to expand access to open and distance learning.
He noted that NOUN operates over 120 study centres nationwide, with only eight located in the South-East, and appealed for government support in securing land for the proposed Aba centre as well as upgrading the Umuahia facility.
The Vice-Chancellor also commended the governor’s developmental strides, describing them as people-oriented and widely appreciated across the country.
The meeting was attended by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Uche Eme, alongside other government officials.
