Abia Set to Launch Contributory Pension Scheme for Workers

The Abia State Government has announced plans to roll out a Contributory Pension Scheme aimed at enhancing welfare for state workers.

Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday at Government House, Umuahia, while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.

Kanu said the scheme is part of ongoing reforms in the state civil service to ensure prompt payment of salaries and pensions.

“It is noteworthy that under this administration, workers’ salaries and pensions are consistently paid on the 28th of every month. The new pension scheme will also ensure that issues of arrears become a thing of the past,” he said.

The commissioner added that a special committee is currently addressing outstanding gratuity payments, which will be settled once the committee completes its assignment.

Education Reforms Paying Off

Kanu also highlighted the achievements of the government’s free education programme, noting a more than 100 per cent increase in enrolment in public primary and junior secondary schools between July and October.

He attributed the growth to reforms that include the recruitment of new teachers, regular payment of salaries, incentives for teachers in difficult-to-access areas, raising the retirement age from 60 to 65, ongoing teacher training, improved learning environments, and the adoption of updated curricula.

Justice System Upgrade

The Information Commissioner further announced that Governor Otti will commission the Umueñe Court Building Complex in Isialangwa South Local Government Area on Wednesday, October 29.

“The Umueñe Courthouse is the first of 17 new state-of-the-art courthouses to be constructed across the 17 local government areas of Abia. These facilities will enhance efficiency and technological advancement in the state’s justice delivery system,” Kanu explained.

Road Safety Awareness

Kanu used the briefing to urge motorists to observe traffic rules, particularly during the ember months, emphasizing the dangers of one-way violations. He noted that the state government, through the Ministry of Transport and in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps, has launched a campaign, “Road Safety is a Shared Responsibility – Drive to Arrive.”

“The law applies to everyone, regardless of status, including the governor’s convoy. Compliance with traffic rules is mandatory,” he added.

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, SAN, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma, were present at the briefing.