Uniport Alumni Spotlight: Meet Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, Governor of Abia State. From the lecture halls of the University of Port Harcourt to the commanding heights of banking, economic policy, and public leadership — Dr. Alex Chioma Otti has built a career that proves excellence is not an act, but a lifelong commitment. Studying Economics at the University of Port Harcourt, Dr Otti distinguished himself early, graduating with a First Class Honours degree in 1988. His years at Uniport were marked by an uncommon blend of academic brilliance and leadership: he served first as Treasurer, then President of the Nigerian Economics Students Association (NESA), and even took on the role of News Editor of the Uniport Mirror campus publication. His devotion to academics earned him recognition as the Best Graduating Student in the Department of Economics, the best in the Faculty of Social Sciences, and the Overall Best Graduating Student of his year. Yet, instead of walking the predictable path of academia, Otti envisioned a future shaped by financial intelligence, reforms, and nation-building. This vision propelled him into Nigeria’s banking sector, where he rose steadily through institutions such as Nigerian International Bank (Citibank), UBA, and subsequently became the Group Managing Director/CEO of Diamond Bank Plc. Under his leadership, Diamond Bank strengthened its global footprint, expanded its customer reach, and implemented modern digital banking systems that contributed to making the institution one of Nigeria’s most innovative banks of its era. His academic journey didn’t end at Uniport. Otti obtained an MBA from the University of Lagos, followed by executive programs at Columbia Business School, Stanford Business School, Wharton (University of Pennsylvania), and INSEAD, France — training that sharpened his competence and broadened his worldview. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to finance and national development, the University of Port Harcourt awarded him an honorary Doctor of Science degree in 2012. But Dr Otti’s greatest pivot came when he stepped into the political arena — choosing service over comfort. Guided by a desire to rebuild institutions and restore the dignity of governance, he contested and won the office of Governor of Abia State in 2023, where he continues to champion reforms grounded in transparency, fiscal discipline, and people-centered development. His leadership today bears the imprint of his Uniport years: intellectual curiosity, discipline, courage, and a commitment to excellence. Beyond public office, Dr. Otti is known for his mentorship, philanthropy, and investment in human capital. His work continues to inspire young Nigerians to believe that with integrity, competence, and resilience, they too can shape the future. Today, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti stands tall as one of Uniport’s most distinguished alumni — a reminder that education is not just a qualification, but a launchpad for nation-building, innovation, and transformational leadership. Your degree isn’t just a certificate. It’s a platform to lead, to innovate, and to impact generations. 📌 If you know any Uniport Alumni doing exploits, do well to mention them in the comment section and we might just shine the spotlight on them. _____________________________________________ We have a WhatsApp channel. Do well to follow for exclusive offers, placements and real time updates; https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAYOmR05MUbjMcimM00 _____________________________________________ #UniqueStoary #Uniport #ABetterUniport #StoarySpotlight #Alumnus #Business #UniportAlumniSpotlight #UniportSpotlight #AlumniSpotlight #UniportAlumni #Campus #CampusGist #CampusLife #GivingBack #UniportPride #Leadership