From TCNEWS

Sir Ekele Ochiabuto has donated ₦1 million to launch the Abia Arise initiative in Okwuta Isieke Ibeku, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, in a significant move aimed at combating youth unemployment and promoting access to education.

Sir Ekele Ochiabuto, who spearheaded the initiative with a direct financial contribution and a passionate call to action, is a prominent stakeholder in the Abia Arise movement and respected community leader.

The donation was announced during the inaugural meeting of the Abia Arise Okwuta chapter, held at Sir Ochiabuto’s residence. The well-attended gathering welcomed over 100 new members and marked a renewed commitment to grassroots empowerment under the Abia Arise movement.

The philanthropic gesture is intended as a take-off grant to support entrepreneurship development and educational advancement for indigent residents of the community.

Described by its stakeholders as “more than a political structure,” Abia Arise is a grassroots movement aligned with the administration of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, O.F.R. It focuses on community development, economic empowerment, and good governance. The movement is gaining traction across Abia State, with a strong emphasis on inclusive growth and youth engagement.

Youth unemployment and limited access to quality education remain pressing issues in many parts of Nigeria, and these the Abia State Governor Alex Otti’s administration is almost defeating with achievable and vibrant policies and by channeling funds into entrepreneurship and scholarship initiatives, Sir Ochiabuto donating to the Abia Arise Okwuta chapter aims to address these challenges from the ground up.

“Many of our youths remain idle due to lack of opportunity. Abia Arise will change that by serving as a platform for real empowerment,” said Sir Ochiabuto during his remarks.

He also commended Governor Alex Otti for what he described as “excellent governance and visionary leadership” over the past two years, reinforcing the group’s alignment with the current administration’s reform agenda.

To ensure transparency and proper allocation, two community leaders and members of the Association, Mr. Anthony Onyeomereneche and Dr. Nicholas Egbeogu, were appointed as trustees to manage the ₦1 million grant.

In his speech, Dr. Egbeogu assured attendees that the funds would be administered fairly and aligned with the donor’s vision.

“We are committed to ensuring that these resources directly benefit the people they are meant for. This is a step toward building the new Abia we all desire,” Dr. Egbeogu said.

The launch of Abia Arise Okwuta underscores a broader shift toward citizen-led development in Nigeria, where local actors are increasingly stepping in to address systemic gaps. The initiative reflects a growing belief that sustainable progress begins with empowered communities.

Earlier, the Ward Coordinator of Abia Arise Ibeku East ward 1, Mr. Ugochukwu Odionyenfe enumerated the many lofty ideals of Abia Arise, expressing optimism and confidence that Abia Arise of Okwuta Chapter will become the most vibrant chapter in the ward and the state at large, especially given the tremendous goodwill and track record of the sponsor, Sir Ekele Ochiabuto.

As Abia Arise chapters continue to emerge across the state, observers say the movement could become a model for participatory development and grassroots governance across the country.