Registration for the first cohort of the Abia Leadership Academy closed on Monday, August 4, 2025, with about 2,000 applications received from interested participants.
According to the organisers, the registration portal at abiastate.gov.ng/leadershipacademy will, however, remain open until Monday, August 11, 2025, for subsequent cohorts.
The programme is designed for young people between the ages of 16 and 20 who are currently enrolled in recognised public or private institutions of learning. Organisers urged eligible youths not to miss the opportunity, as the Academy promises to provide mentorship in an environment set up by Governor Alex Otti. “It promises to be a life-changing experience for every participant,” a statement read.
The organisers announced that a Computer-Based Test (CBT) and a brief interview will take place on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at a designated digital test centre in Umuahia. L
Invitations have already been sent to shortlisted applicants. The assessment will begin in the morning, and participants are advised to be punctual. The test will cover basic knowledge expected of individuals within the specified demographic. The organisers assured that there is no reason for panic. “Prepare, come and show the team what you are made of by tomorrow,” the statement added.
The training programme will be residential, with a dedicated facility in Umuahia prepared to host and train 1,000 young people between now and the first week of September. Each week, a cohort of 250 participants will be accommodated for a 7-day residency.
The programme will feature mentally stimulating activities, physical exercises, group discussions, assignments, and other engagements aimed at preparing participants for leadership responsibilities.
In early September, a grand graduation ceremony will be held for all participants, with Governor Alex C. Otti, OFR, as the chief host.
Certificates will be presented to those who successfully complete the programme, while prizes will be awarded to the most outstanding individuals. All participants who complete the training will also receive stipends to cover transport costs.
The Abia Leadership Academy is designed to go beyond the initial training period, establishing a community of achievers, visionaries, and thinkers. Members will continue to collaborate on governance and enterprise projects, engage in periodic meetups, and share ideas to improve their communities.
The organisers called on parents, school principals, teachers, religious leaders, and community heads to encourage eligible youths to take part. “The Academy is a continuing project that would unite our best and brightest minds to inspire each other,” the statement emphasised.