Otti Hails Abia Workers’ Commitment, Announces New Welfare Packages On Workers’ Day

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has commended the resilience and evolving work ethic of Abia workers, announcing a raft of welfare improvements during the 2025 International Workers’ Day celebration held at the Umuahia Township Stadium.

In a speech themed “Partnership for Transformation,” Governor Otti praised the shift away from the traditional 9-to-5 culture, highlighting a new wave of dedication among civil servants and private sector workers alike. “You do not go home because it is 5 pm; you go home because you have effectively completed your tasks,” he told the cheering crowd.

The Governor credited the improved morale and productivity in the public sector to reforms in worker welfare, regular salary and pension payments, and improved working conditions. “We have kept our promise of prompt salary and pension payments, consistently paying on or before the 28th of every month,” Otti said. He also confirmed the implementation of the new national minimum wage of N70,000 in the state and the approval of an enhanced pay structure for health workers in line with federal standards.

Reeling out achievements, the Governor disclosed that over 5,000 teachers were recruited in the last year through a transparent process, with plans underway to hire an additional 4,000 teachers and technologists. He also announced the recruitment of 771 health workers to support the over 200 health facilities currently under construction or renovation.

Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a conducive work environment, citing major upgrades at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Secretariat, a new secretariat for the Civil Service Commission, and the commissioning of the JAAC Building. He also noted the launch of a health insurance scheme that has so far enrolled over 20,000 civil servants.

The Governor addressed lingering issues, including inherited salary and pension arrears, revealing that over N30 billion has already been paid to settle the backlog. He assured that dialogue was ongoing to compensate workers unfairly dismissed by the previous administration.

While responding to the theme of this year’s celebration, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” Otti acknowledged the economic challenges faced by many Nigerians but encouraged optimism. “It is not the end of the road. Things will get better and together, we shall smile again,” he assured.

He pledged to continue prioritizing workers’ welfare and maintaining open dialogue with labour unions. “We shall always put you first,” Otti concluded, thanking Abia workers for their support and contributions to building the New Abia.