Abia Set to Launch New Minimum Wage Payments Starting October

Gov Alex Otti

The government of Abia State is set to implement a new minimum wage of N70,000 starting in October 2024.

During a press conference in Umuahia, Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, revealed that this wage increase will benefit all types of workers and fulfills a promise made by Governor Alex Otti.

Kanu emphasized that this decision demonstrates the administration’s dedication to enhancing the well-being of its workforce.

It is noteworthy that after extensive discussions with labor representatives, the Federal Government recently sanctioned the new minimum wage of N70,000.

Additionally, the Commissioner announced plans for the state to commence construction of modern court facilities in each of the 17 Local Government Areas within the next two weeks to facilitate justice.

He also mentioned that Governor Otti is set to initiate the development of a 19.4-kilometre road in Isiala Ngwa North and South local government areas as part of the RAMP project.

Kanu credited the exceptional performance of Abia State in the recent National Examination Council (NECO) results to the educational reforms implemented by the current administration, predicting further improvements in future results.

Moreover, the Commissioner indicated that the Governor will soon honor the Abia athletes who performed well in the recent paralympics.

Meanwhile, Commissioner for Sports, Mr. Ananaba Nwobilor, commended the achievements of the Abia team at the Under 15 National Youth Games in Delta State, where they secured 31 medals, including seven golds, 12 silvers, and 12 bronzes, ranking 10th overall—a historic milestone for the state.

Nwobilor noted that the administration’s significant investments in sports development are starting to bear fruit, with six promising young athletes from the recent All Secondary School Games now being developed in Hungary.

He also shared that two players from the Abia Angels have been loaned to a European club, and another standout player, Nmesomachi, is currently on a full scholarship in the USA, where she is also playing soccer.

Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, stated that the forthcoming court facilities would meet modern standards.

Mr. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, was also present at the briefing.