Abia State Government Lifts 10-Year Promotion Ban at Polytechnic, Pays 33 Months Salary Arrears
The Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, has removed a ten-year ban on promotion for employees at Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, previously Abia Polytechnic, Aba. The action is a step toward resolving the ages-long grievances of the institution’s workers.
The ten-year ban on promotions, which was in place under the former government, had apparently hindered the career progression of the staff. Governor Otti has now given his nod for the immediate implementation of all pending promotions to enable the affected staff members to enjoy their entitlements and recognition. He also terminated the contentious “National Promotions” practice, which had been used in the polytechnic.
In addition to removing the ban on promotion, the state government also kept its word to pay 33 months of salary arrears owed to the institution workers. The polytechnic staff, who had suffered financial difficulties for years, appreciated the governor’s intervention.
In addition to these, Governor Otti’s government has been praised for timely and frequent payment of salaries, in addition to constant work on improving the institution’s infrastructure and academic excellence.
The action is part of the governor’s comprehensive policy on staff welfare and a plan to overhaul the education sector in Abia State. The development has been welcomed by stakeholders in the education sector as a move in the right direction towards restoring confidence in the state’s higher education system.
Governor Otti restated his priority on education and making the state’s schools run smoothly with motivated staff. His administration has pledged to carry on reforms that will enhance learning environments and the general quality of education in Abia.
