The Abia State Government says it will this September formally launch its workers’ contributory pension scheme, as part of ongoing reforms aimed at improving the welfare of civil servants.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing newsmen on the outcome of this week’s Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti at the Government House, Umuahia.
He said ten pension fund administrators have been selected and approved for enlistment in the scheme, adding that preparations for the formal launch were in top gear, with the exact date and venue to be announced soon.
Kanu also revealed that following the delivery of the first 40 buses under the state’s mass transit programme, government plans to extend the service to far-flung local government areas, including Arochukwu and Umunneochi. He stressed that the initiative aligns with the administration’s philosophy of ensuring that rural dwellers enjoy the same quality social services as residents in Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia.
On infrastructure, the Commissioner confirmed that earthworks have commenced at the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP) following the payment of compensation to affected landowners. He noted that HSI Energy, the company behind the Modular Refinery project at the park, is ahead of other participating firms, having secured almost all required regulatory approvals.
Regarding road works, Kanu said direct labour projects were ongoing at 55 locations across the state, with five already completed, including the reconstruction of Ajiwe Street to Umungasi in Aba, the southern approach to Mmuri Bridge in Ohafia, and drainage construction along selected sections of roads. He added that maintenance works were also underway on the Itunbuzo Road in Bende LGA, while failed sections of the Umuahia–Bende Road were being addressed with the installation of safety barriers.
The government also announced plans to strengthen the enforcement of traffic laws, warning motorists against one-way driving, traffic light violations, and illegal passenger pickups. Touting and extortion in parks and along roads were declared strictly prohibited.
Similarly, the Commissioner warned individuals and families involved in the extortion of traders in road markets to desist immediately, noting that government has their identities and would prosecute offenders if they fail to stop.
On culture, the Council approved a resolution mandating all Executive Council members to wear traditional outfits on the first Monday of every month, while civil servants are encouraged to dress traditionally on Fridays. Kanu said this was part of the government’s effort to promote indigenous craftsmanship, boost cultural pride, and support locally made fabrics.
Leave a comment