Governor Alex Otti of Abia State says his administration has committed over ₦40 billion in the last two years to offset arrears of salaries and pensions, restoring financial dignity to workers and retirees in the state.
Speaking on Thursday at an event in Umuahia to commemorate his administration’s two-year anniversary themed *“Transformative Governance: Sustaining the Momentum,”* Otti declared that salary and pension payments had become institutionalised, with workers now paid on or before the 28th of every month.
“Pensioners now receive full monthly payments, ending the era of partial disbursements experienced by retirees,” the governor added.
Otti also announced the complete renovation of the long-abandoned Nnamdi Azikiwe Secretariat, which now accommodates nearly 1,000 civil servants. He revealed ongoing efforts to digitise government operations and phase out manual filing systems through the provision of computers.
Highlighting a partnership with MTN, the governor said full network coverage across Abia State would be achieved by December 31, 2025, alongside the development of the first Aba Digital Mall aimed at boosting e-commerce and local trade.
On education, Otti reiterated his government’s resolve to allocate 20% of the state’s annual budget to the sector. He said smart schools were under construction in all 17 Local Government Areas, and that free basic education had significantly boosted enrolment, prompting the recruitment of 5,300 new teachers earlier this year. Another 4,000 would be employed soon to meet growing demand, he added.
“Every qualified individual, irrespective of state of origin, ethnicity, or religion, will be given an equal opportunity,” Otti assured.
On the healthcare front, the governor disclosed that over 100 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) had been renovated, with commissioning scheduled to begin June 1. He added that major renovations were underway at 10 general hospitals and two specialist centres. He further announced plans for a medical village to reduce outbound medical tourism and establish Abia as a leading healthcare hub in Nigeria.
Addressing security, Otti credited the success of “Operation Crush” for reclaiming areas of Umunneochi and Isuikwuato from criminal elements, restoring peace and safety. He commended security agencies for their dedication to protecting lives and property.
Infrastructure-wise, the governor revealed that several roads across Umuahia, Aba, and other parts of the state were ready for commissioning beginning June 1. He pledged continued adherence to good governance, transparency, and prudent use of public funds.
Otti reaffirmed Abia’s private-sector-led economic strategy, highlighting the disbursement of ₦1 billion to empower 10,000 nano-businesses as part of efforts to reduce economic hardship and promote entrepreneurship.
On power, the governor confirmed that Geometric Power now generates 141 megawatts, with an additional turbine expected to increase capacity. He also revealed discussions with Enugu DISCO to isolate Umuahia as a power island, similar to the Aba model, to ensure stable electricity supply to Umuahia, Bende, Umunneochi, Isuikwuato, Ohafia, and Arochukwu.
Otti noted that nearly 7,000 solar-powered streetlights had been installed across the state, enhancing security and enabling a 24-hour economy.
The governor also celebrated the state’s environmental turnaround, saying Abia had transformed “from one of the dirtiest to among the cleanest in Nigeria,” thanks to a culture of collective responsibility adopted by residents.
He extended appreciation to civil servants, appointees, healthcare workers, and sanitation staff for their dedication to the administration’s goals. He attributed the state’s progress to divine guidance and the unflinching support of Abians before, during, and after the 2023 elections.
In goodwill messages, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South) and Rep. Ginger Onwusibe (Isiala Ngwa North/South) lauded the governor’s transformational leadership and urged citizens to continue supporting the government’s initiatives.
The Speaker of the Abia House of Assembly, Chief Emmanuel Emeruwa, and his deputy, Mr Austin Mmeregini, passed a vote of confidence on the governor and pledged continuous legislative backing for his rebuilding efforts.
The event was attended by dignitaries including former Deputy Governor Chief Ude Oko-Chukwu and former Chairman of Ohafia LGA, among others.
