Global health symposium Gov.Otti earns limelight

Abia State has been chosen as one of six Nigerian states to represent the country at an international medical symposium in Ghana later this month. The symposium, titled “Human Capital Opportunity for Prosperity and Equity” (HOPE), is a joint initiative of the World Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Prince Okey Kanu, Commissioner for Information, announced this following an Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Dr. Alex Otti. He noted that Abia’s selection reflects the national recognition of the state’s significant reforms in the healthcare sector.

Kanu also mentioned that the Abia Electricity Bill has passed its second reading in the State House of Assembly. He expressed hope that the Assembly will expedite its passage after their recess. Additionally, he reported that the “Light Up Abia Initiative,” which started in Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia, has now extended to other parts of the state, installing 4,345 solar lights in 86 locations.

The Governor has also directed landlords in Aba to secure building certificates within a 90-day grace period, allowing them to pay the old rates for approvals. This move, according to Kanu, aims to ease compliance for property owners while reflecting the Governor’s supportive approach to policy implementation.

Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, highlighted that the Electricity Bill responds to the 2023 Electricity Act, which allows states to manage power generation and distribution. He added that once the bill is passed, it will facilitate the creation of the Abia State Rural Electrification Agency and help position Abia as a power generation hub for the Southeast region.