Over ₦40 Billion Spent on Salary, Pension Arrears in Two Years, Says Alex Otti
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has announced that his administration has disbursed over ₦40 billion in the past two years to clear inherited salary and pension arrears.
The governor made this revelation during an event commemorating his second year in office, themed “Transformative Governance: Sustaining the Momentum”, held in Umuahia.
Speaking to a crowd of government officials, stakeholders, and citizens, Governor Otti underscored the importance of restoring dignity to public servants and retirees who had suffered under past administrations.
“Within 24 months, we have spent well over ₦40 billion in payment of arrears of salaries and pensions,” Otti stated. “I’m glad to report that, as we speak, I’m not sure we owe anybody.”
The governor added that salaries are now consistently paid by the 28th of each month, and pensioners receive full monthly disbursements without delay.
One of the major highlights of Governor Otti’s tenure has been civil service reform.
The previously neglected Nnamdi Azikiwe Secretariat has been fully renovated and now accommodates nearly 1,000 civil servants. His administration has also begun the digitization of government operations, replacing outdated manual processes with computer-based systems to improve efficiency and transparency.
In collaboration with MTN Nigeria, the state has launched a digital infrastructure initiative to achieve 100% network coverage across all local government areas by December 31, 2025.
This partnership also includes the development of the Aba Digital Mall, envisioned to enhance e-commerce and boost local entrepreneurship.
Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education by dedicating 20% of the state’s annual budget to the sector. Highlights include:
• Construction of Smart Schools in all 17 local government areas.
• A boost in basic education enrollment due to free education policies.
• Recruitment of 5,300 new teachers, with plans to hire another 4,000 to meet increasing demand.
Healthcare delivery has also received substantial attention. The state government has:
• Renovated over 100 Primary Healthcare Centres, set to be commissioned from June 1.
• Undertaken renovation projects in 10 general hospitals and 2 specialist centres.
• Proposed the creation of a medical village in Abia to curb outbound medical tourism and provide quality care locally.
Security has significantly improved under the “Operation Crush” initiative. The administration has reclaimed areas like Umunneochi and Isuikwuato from criminal control, restoring peace and mobility in affected communities.
A wide range of road construction projects in Umuahia, Aba, and rural communities are set to be commissioned in early June. The administration also launched a ₦1 billion fund aimed at supporting 10,000 nano and small-scale businesses, reflecting its commitment to economic empowerment.
With Geometric Power generating 141 megawatts of electricity, plans are underway to add another turbine for expanded output.
The state is also in discussions with Enugu Electricity Distribution Company to designate Umuahia as a power island, similar to Aba, ensuring uninterrupted electricity for strategic areas.
Nearly 7,000 solar-powered streetlights have been installed to boost security and encourage 24-hour commercial activity. Abia has also improved its sanitation profile significantly, moving from being one of Nigeria’s dirtiest states to one of the cleanest.
Governor Otti expressed gratitude to Abians for their unwavering support and praised the contributions of civil servants, health workers, and other public officials. He attributed the state’s progress to collective effort, accountability, and divine guidance.
“Our goal has always been to put the people first. What we’ve achieved so far is only a foundation. We will continue to build on it,” he said.
The event was attended by top dignitaries including Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, Speaker Emmanuel Emeruwa, and Deputy Speaker Austin Mmeregini.
As the administration marks its second year, the tone was one of progress and promise — with a clear message that the Otti-led government remains committed to “transformative governance” and sustainable development in Abia State.
