Abia Govt Reassures on Timely Completion of 63 School Projects

A two-day media tour of ongoing school rehabilitation projects across Abia State has ended, with the state government reiterating its commitment to deliver quality learning environments ahead of the new academic session.

Journalists, divided into three groups, inspected 63 schools under construction, reconstruction, and renovation across the three senatorial zones between Wednesday, September 3, and Friday, September 5.

Speaking after the tour, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, commended the press for independently verifying progress on the projects, describing it as a demonstration of transparency and accountability by the Governor Alex Otti-led administration.

“I believe the best way to keep the public informed is for journalists to see things firsthand and tell the people the true position of things,” Ubochi said. “What you have seen is just the first phase. More schools have already been approved for renovation.”

The commissioner explained that while 221 schools were initially earmarked for renovation under the ministry’s retrofitting initiative, the first phase focused on 63 schools across the 17 local government areas. He expressed optimism that a “reasonable number” of the projects would be completed before schools reopen on September 22.

According to him, most of the work is being executed through direct labour to ensure quality control and efficient use of resources. He also disclosed that the government is collaborating with the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities to provide electricity in schools, while plans are underway to strengthen security within the premises.

The schools inspected include primary and secondary schools in Arochukwu, Bende, Isuikwuato, Ohafia, Umunneochi, Ikwuano, Isiala Ngwa North and South, Osisioma, Umuahia North and South, Obingwa, Ukwa East, Ugwunagbo, and Aba.

The Otti administration has consistently maintained that investment in education is central to its development agenda, with emphasis on upgrading infrastructure, improving security, and creating a conducive environment for learning.