One hundred graduates of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Abia State, who graduated with distinction, have each received N1 million under the state's Graduate Empowerment Grant Scheme. Governor Alex Otti announced the scheme at the Polytechnic's convocation on December 5, 2025, stating it would help exceptional graduates start businesses, create jobs, and support the state's economic growth.

Otti explained that the entrepreneurship grant, introduced across tertiary institutions in the state, was designed to involve young people in ongoing development projects in roads, housing, electricity, and public water supply. "The days of letting our best and brightest wander off after graduation to struggle in far off places without support are gone. Do your best, and we will offer you further support to find genuine success here in Abia," he said.

Before the grants were disbursed, the Polytechnic, working with the state government, organised an entrepreneurship and business startup workshop for beneficiaries, with resource persons drawn from the Corporate Affairs Commission and other bodies. The Rector, Dr Christopher Kalu, noted that the workshop was meant to prepare beneficiaries for responsible use of the funds, and urged them to invest in ventures that create value and generate sustainable income.

Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof Eme Uche Eme, told beneficiaries the grant was "not for hair or for pride; it's for innovation and creating things that will take you beyond here. If you do well after six months, the Government will support you further." She commended the Rector for raising the Institution's profile and pledged the Ministry's continued support as the Polytechnic advances its relocation to the Osisioma campus.

The 100 beneficiaries received their grants at the close of the workshop, marking the conclusion of a process that combined financial support with practical guidance on business management and sustainability.