In response to the rapidly evolving global economy driven by technology and innovation, a new initiative aimed at equipping young people with practical, marketable skills has been launched in Abia State.

The programme, tagged Abia Tech & Industrial Skills Acquisition Initiative, was flagged off by Engr. Bright Obinna Orji, Chief Executive Officer of GOBEN Engineering Co. Ltd., at Dominion City Headquarters, Okpara Square, Umuahia Abia State, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. The initiative is designed to support the vision of the Abia State Government in building a “New Abia” through human capital development, innovation, and industrial advancement.

Speaking at the event, Engr. Orji described the summit as a strategic step toward empowering youths and fostering sustainable economic transformation across the state.

“I had the privilege of convening the Abia Tech & Industrial Skills Acquisition Summit in Umuahia, advancing a shared vision of youth empowerment, skills development, and economic transformation,” he said.

He emphasized that the programme goes beyond conventional training, marking the beginning of a “Skills to Jobs” movement focused on bridging the gap between learning and employment in the society.

According to him, the initiative is structured to ensure that participants not only acquire knowledge but also gain access to real opportunities in the workforce and entrepreneurial space.

“At Goben Human Development Initiative, we are committed to building a system where training leads to employment, entrepreneurship, income generation, and long-term economic growth,” Orji added.

The programme targets key sectors critical to modern economic development, including digital technology and innovation, construction and technical trades, automobile and mechanical services, renewable energy, manufacturing, and the creative industries.

GOBEN further explained that the initiative adopts a holistic approach, incorporating hands on training, mentorship, workforce readiness, and enterprise support to ensure participants transition effectively from learning to earning.

“This is how we drive productivity, self reliance, community development, and economic stability,” he noted.

Representing the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, at the event, Engr. Ochonma Promise Akachi, an automobile engineer, urged youths to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the current administration to acquire practical skills.

He stressed that skills acquisition remains a reliable pathway to financial independence and long term security.

“Every youth, especially in Abia State, should grab this opportunity. The present government is open and committed to training and empowering those who are willing to work. While formal education is important, skills will always remain a dependable asset that cannot fail you,” he said.

Drawing from his personal experience, Akachi highlighted the resilience that comes with possessing a skill.

“As an automobile engineer, regardless of location or circumstance, I can always rely on my expertise to earn a living. Skills are permanent and valuable assets,” he added.

He also cautioned against negative attitudes toward vocational work, encouraging young people to view skill based professions as dignified and rewarding career paths. He urged participants to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to their training.

The Commissioner of Police, Abia State Command, CP Danladi Isa, who was represented at the event by Assistant Commissioner of Police George Enaholo, urged youths to take full advantage of the initiative by committing themselves seriously to skills acquisition.

In his remarks, ACP Enaholo described the programme as a valuable opportunity for young people to build sustainable livelihoods, stressing that acquiring practical skills remains essential for long-term self-reliance. He noted that even after retirement from active service, individuals can still learn and benefit from vocational skills.

He further emphasized that widespread engagement in skills development would significantly reduce unemployment and curb criminal activities across the state.

“When youths are meaningfully engaged and equipped with relevant skills, they become productive and less likely to engage in crime. A society where young people are empowered is a safer and more prosperous one,” he stated.

Beneficiaries of the programme expressed enthusiasm and gratitude, describing the initiative as a life changing opportunity. Many noted their interest in technology driven fields such as data analysis, emphasizing the growing global demand for digital skills.

One participant stated that the programme had reshaped their mindset about success and personal development.

“Many youths want quick money without going through the process of learning. But I want to acquire knowledge and skills that will enable me to create opportunities, not just depend on them,” the participant said.

They also encouraged other young people to embrace skills acquisition and self development rather than engaging in social vices or seeking short term gains.

The Abia Tech & Industrial Skills Initiative is expected to play a pivotal role in reducing unemployment, promoting entrepreneurship, and positioning Abia youths as key drivers of innovation and economic growth.

Stakeholders at the event described the programme as timely and transformative, expressing optimism that it would contribute significantly to building a skilled, self reliant, and productive workforce in the state.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of an award to special guests and to the Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa. He was honoured with the Excellence in Security and Community Impact Award in recognition of his outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to maintaining peace and security in Abia State.

The award also acknowledged his performance as one of the most outstanding Commissioners of Police in Nigeria, reflecting his contributions to strengthening security and fostering community trust within the state.

Renowned legal practitioner, Barrister Monday Ubani (SAN), on May 1, 2026, marked his 30th wedding anniversary, celebrating three decades of marriage defined by love, resilience, and unwavering faith.

Reflecting on the milestone, Ubani described his marital journey as one “woven with love, resilience, and grace,” noting that over the years, he and his wife have grown “stronger, wiser, and ever grateful to God through every season.”

The union, which began in 1996, has blossomed into a lifetime of shared dreams and fulfilled aspirations. Speaking on the significance of the occasion, he said:
“We started in 1996 with a promise which has now blossomed into a lifetime of shared dreams and fulfilled realities. Today, we celebrate the beauty of our union, richly blessed with four wonderful children we are deeply proud of.”

The marriage is blessed with four children, three sons and a daughter. Two of the sons have followed in their father’s footsteps into the legal profession, with one already called to the Nigerian Bar and another currently in the process. The other son is an Engineer, while the daughter is a journalist who holds a Master’s degree in International Relations.

Offering prayers at the celebration, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria said:

“May God’s love continue to bind us as we journey on earth and look forward to making heaven together. Amen.”

Ubani also used the occasion to offer advice to both married and unmarried individuals. He urged couples to place their trust in God and allow divine guidance in their homes, while encouraging singles to seek God’s direction in choosing life partners. He cautioned against marriages driven by material considerations, noting that such motivations have contributed to the breakdown of many homes. Instead, he emphasized that marriages should be founded on genuine love and guided by God’s will.

Friends and well wishers described the Ubani family as exemplary, praising their commitment to community welfare and humanitarian efforts. In his home community of Ikwuano Local Government Area in Abia State, Barrister Ubani is widely celebrated for his contributions and support to development initiatives.

In an interview, one of the beneficiaries of his goodwill, Mr. Jeremiah Chukwujindu, described Ubani as “a man of God” who has impacted lives both spiritually and financially. He further commended the legal luminary for his wisdom, humility, and evident fear of God, which he said is reflected in the harmony and love within his family.

Expressing gratitude, Ubani thanked God for His protection and blessings over his family throughout the years.

He concluded by offering prayers for Nigeria, asking God to restore peace and grant the nation’s leaders wisdom and understanding to effectively govern. He also prayed for lasting peace across the world.

A political stakeholder and Interpol Systems Consultant, Sir Chikwe Udensi, has reacted to the recent Supreme Court judgment affirming Senator David Mark as the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), cautioning that the party’s legal and political battles may not yet be over.

Speaking in an interview with ABN TV shortly after the apex court’s decision, Udensi described the ruling as a positive development but stressed that it does not entirely resolve the lingering issues surrounding the party’s leadership crisis.

According to him, the directive for parties to return to the Federal High Court for further proceedings indicates that the matter is still within the legal system and far from being conclusively settled.

“We are not out of the woods,” Udensi said. “Asking them to go back to the Federal High Court still leaves us within the ambit of litigation. So, while it is a step forward, it is not the final destination.”

He likened the current situation to a partial victory, noting that

“half bread is better than none,” suggesting that while the judgment offers some relief, uncertainties remain.

On whether the ADC, under the leadership of David Mark, would successfully appear on the ballot in the 2027 general elections, Udensi expressed reservations, citing what he described as a challenging political environment.

“You are talking about a very hostile government,” he said. “That level of hostility would likely leverage any available opportunity to target perceived opponents.”

Udensi further raised concerns about the consistency in the application of the rule of law, suggesting that political considerations could influence legal processes.

“That is where the problem lies — you don’t know when the rule of law will be allowed to take its course or when it will not,” he added.

Despite the Supreme Court’s ruling, Udensi maintained that the situation remains uncertain, concluding that “it is not yet Uhuru,” a phrase indicating that total victory has not yet been achieved.

The Supreme Court judgment had earlier nullified the Court of Appeal’s order which affected the recognition of David Mark as ADC National Chairman, thereby restoring his leadership. However, developments following the ruling suggest that the legal and political contestations within the party may continue to unfold in the coming months.