Governor Alex Otti of Abia has directed officials to begin searching for a temporary location for a National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) study centre in Aba. The directive followed a meeting with NOUN Vice-Chancellor Prof. Uduma Uduma at Otti's residence in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. Otti tasked the Commissioner for Tertiary Education and the Managing Director of the Greater Aba Development Authority to initiate the process for a temporary site while plans for a permanent facility progress. He described Aba as a major commercial hub that should not be without a NOUN presence.
Otti noted the growing relevance of open and distance learning, citing platforms like Google Meet and Zoom as tools enhancing knowledge sharing. "In view of the role NOUN is playing in advancing education, it is imperative that Aba has a study centre," he said. He reaffirmed the state government's commitment to education through teacher recruitment and training. The governor also instructed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education to collaborate with the Umuahia NOUN study centre to identify support needs.
Uduma, during his visit, sought government support and policy direction for establishing the Aba centre. He said NOUN is committed to expanding access to education and promoting inclusiveness through open and distance learning. He noted that many universities now operate a dual mode of education delivery and that study centres are critical access points. Aba, as one of Nigeria's largest cities, deserves such a facility, he added.
Governor Otti calls for a temporary NOUN study centre in Aba, yet the city still lacks one despite its size and economic activity. The delay in establishing a centre undermines claims of prioritising accessible education for Aba residents. If Aba is as important as described, the process should have concluded, not just begun. Promises of support mean little without immediate, visible action.
💡 NaijaBuzz Take is AI-assisted editorial opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
