Governor Alex Otti’s administration has announced that the new minimum wage for workers in Abia State will take effect in October 2024. This assurance was provided by the State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a press conference held in Umuahia.
Kanu stated that the wage increase would apply to all categories of workers within the state, highlighting that this decision fulfills Governor Otti’s commitment to improving the welfare of the workforce in Abia. He emphasized that the initiative reflects the current administration’s dedication to prioritizing the needs of its employees.
The announcement follows extensive negotiations between labor representatives and the Federal Government, which recently approved a new minimum wage of N70,000.
In addition to the wage increase, Commissioner Kanu revealed that the state government would soon begin constructing modern court facilities in each of the 17 Local Government Areas to ensure the uninterrupted administration of justice. This initiative aims to enhance legal infrastructure and accessibility across the state.
Kanu also mentioned plans to commence the construction of a 19.4-kilometer road in the Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas as part of the Rural Access and Mobility Project (RAMP). This project is expected to improve transportation and connectivity within the region.
Highlighting the achievements of the state’s educational sector, Kanu credited Abia’s outstanding performance in the recently released National Examination Council (NECO) results, where the state ranked first. He attributed this success to ongoing educational reforms implemented by the current administration and expressed confidence in the state’s continued improvement in the coming years.
Additionally, Kanu noted that Governor Otti is set to host the Abia team that participated in the recent Paralympic Games, celebrating their accomplishments in the competition.
The Commissioner for Sports, Ananaba Nwobilor, also expressed pride in the Abia team’s performance at the Under 15 National Youth Games held in Delta State, where they secured a total of 31 medals, including seven gold, 12 silver, and 12 bronze. “Abia came 10th overall, marking the first time in the state’s history,” he stated.
Nwobilor shared that the significant financial investments made by the current government in sports are beginning to yield positive results. He noted that six young athletes identified during the recent All Secondary School Games are currently being nurtured in Hungary. Furthermore, he revealed that two players from the Abia Angels have been loaned to a European club, and another rising talent, Nmesomachi, is receiving a full scholarship in the United States to pursue soccer.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, who also attended the briefing, indicated that the planned court facilities would meet modern standards, ensuring that justice is served efficiently and effectively. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, was also present at the event.
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