“Abia Government Announces New Minimum Wage Payment to Start in October”

Babatunji Wusu –

– Abia State’s new minimum wage will take effect in October 2024.
– All categories of workers will benefit from this increase.
– Construction of modern court facilities will begin soon in all 17 LGAs.
– Abia State topped the recent NECO results, thanks to educational reforms.
– The government is investing in sports, leading to significant achievements by local athletes.

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has assured state workers that the new minimum wage will be implemented in October 2024. This announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a press conference in Umuahia. He stated that the wage increase, which applies to all categories of workers, fulfills Governor Otti’s commitment to the workforce, reflecting the administration’s dedication to employee welfare.

This decision follows the recent federal approval of a new minimum wage set at N70,000 after extensive negotiations with labor representatives.

Additionally, Kanu revealed plans for the State Government to commence construction of modern court facilities in each of the 17 Local Government Areas within two weeks, ensuring uninterrupted administration of justice. He also noted the initiation of a 19.4-kilometer road project in Isiala Ngwa North and South as part of the RAMP initiative.

Highlighting the achievements of Abia State, Kanu credited the current administration’s educational reforms for the state’s top ranking in the recent National Examination Council (NECO) results and expressed confidence in ongoing improvements.

Furthermore, the Commissioner noted that Governor Otti will soon celebrate the Abia team’s accomplishments at the recent Paralympic Games. Commissioner for Sports, Ananaba Nwobilor, emphasized the team’s success at the Under 15 National Youth Games in Delta State, where Abia won a total of 31 medals—seven gold, 12 silver, and 12 bronze—ranking 10th overall, a first for the state.

He also highlighted the government’s significant financial investment in sports, which has led to the discovery of six young athletes now training in Hungary. Two players from Abia Angels are on loan to a European club, and another promising talent is receiving a full soccer scholarship in the U.S.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, mentioned that the planned court facilities will meet modern standards, with the Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, also present at the briefing.