Abia Government Rolls Out Sweeping Reforms: Pension Launch, Cultural Renaissance, Transport Expansion, Safe Water Intervention, And Industrial Growth
Abia Government Rolls Out Sweeping Reforms: Pension Launch, Cultural Renaissance, Transport Expansion, Safe Water Intervention, and Industrial Growth
The Abia State Government has unveiled a raft of reforms and initiatives cutting across workers’ welfare, culture, infrastructure, transportation, health, and industrial development, reaffirming its commitment to the well-being of citizens and the transformation of the state.
Briefing journalists at Government House Umuahia on Monday after this week’s Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, said the state will in September formally launch the Contributory Pension Scheme for public servants.
According to him, ten Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) have already been approved for enlistment into the scheme, with preparations at advanced stages. He described the move as a demonstration of the government’s “unwavering commitment to improving the well-being of Abia workers.”
In a bid to rekindle Igbo cultural pride and showcase indigenous craftsmanship, the State Executive Council has approved a policy mandating civil servants to wear traditional outfits every Friday, while members of the Executive Council will put on traditional attire every first Monday of the month.
“We are aware that there is an ongoing cultural revolution in the state, and this initiative will help strengthen our identity and promote locally made fabrics,” Kanu said.
On transportation and orderliness, the Commissioner disclosed that the government will intensify enforcement of traffic regulations, targeting offenders such as those driving against traffic, disobeying traffic lights, or picking up passengers in unauthorized spots.
Kanu also issued a stern warning to individuals extorting traders at Ngwa Road market, stressing that the government has identified those involved and is giving them a last chance to desist before facing prosecution.
To ensure rural dwellers benefit from modern services, the State Executive Council has approved the extension of the newly introduced mass transit scheme to hinterland local government areas such as Arochukwu, Umunneochi, and Ukwa East, following the expected arrival of 40 buses in November.
Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, assured that extortion complaints in markets raised during the briefing would be thoroughly investigated.
In a swift response to reports of water contamination in Ohanso, Ukwa East LGA, the government has set up an emergency management team led by the Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Professor Joel Ogbonna, to provide potable water.
Investigations revealed that hydrocarbons suspected to be crude oil had seeped into boreholes in the community, contaminating drinking water. “This remedial action underscores the compassionate governance style of Governor Otti, providing immediate solutions to communities under danger,” Kanu said.
On industrial development, the Commissioner disclosed that earthworks have commenced at the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP) following compensation payments to affected landowners. HSI Energies, developers of the Modular Refinery project within the park, are reported to be making significant progress, having secured almost all regulatory approvals.
Meanwhile, road construction and rehabilitation continue across the state, with direct-labour projects ongoing in 55 locations, five of which have been completed in the past week.
The briefing was also attended by Prof. Ogbonna, Dr. Ukaegbu, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma.
