By 9jaeye 
Abia State has taken a bold step in supporting its workforce by approving a new minimum wage of ₦70,000 for civil servants, effective from the end of October 2024. Governor Alex Otti announced the decision following a State Executive Council meeting in Umuahia, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to improving living standards for public employees. According to the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, the wage adjustment reflects the government’s dedication to addressing the rising cost of living and providing sustainable support for state workers. As part of this new structure, entry-level workers at Grade Level 1, Step 1, will receive ₦70,000, while those at higher steps, such as Grade Level 1, Step 15, will earn up to ₦80,463.
Infrastructure Developments in Abia State
In addition to the wage increase, the Abia State government has approved a series of infrastructure projects designed to uplift communities across the three senatorial districts. Commissioner Kanu outlined that nine new road construction projects have been approved and are set to begin soon. This initiative, he noted, aims to ease transportation for residents and businesses, thereby boosting local economies. Governor Otti has positioned infrastructure improvements as essential to the state’s overall growth, underlining his commitment to addressing pressing infrastructural needs that have long affected residents.
Focus on Public Health and Sanitation
The “Clean Up Abia Initiative,” spearheaded by the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), is another key component of the state’s reform efforts. ASEPA has deployed over 100 waste receptacles across urban centers, such as Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia, and extended sanitation services to high-traffic areas like Lokpanta Market and Uzuakoli. The agency’s work aims to keep public areas clean and mitigate health risks in local markets and abattoirs, ultimately creating a healthier environment for Abia residents.
Through this combination of wage increases and targeted development projects, Governor Otti’s administration demonstrates a strong focus on improving both the quality of life and infrastructure in Abia State. These changes reflect the government’s strategy to drive economic and social progress for the benefit of its citizens.
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