Minimum wage: Alex Otti to begin payment in October

The Executive Governor of Abia State has announced that it will begin implementing the new minimum wage in October 2024. Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, shared this update during a press conference in Umuahia, noting that the wage increase will apply to all workers as part of Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to their welfare.

Following negotiations, the Federal Government recently set the new minimum wage at N70,000. Additionally, Kanu revealed that the state plans to launch the construction of modern court halls in each of the 17 Local Government Areas to enhance the administration of justice.

He also mentioned that the Governor will initiate the construction of a 19.4-kilometre road in Isiala Ngwa North and South LGAs as part of the RAMP project. Kanu credited the state’s outstanding performance in the recent NECO results to ongoing educational reforms, expressing optimism for future improvements.

Moreover, the Governor is set to recognize the Abia athletes who excelled in the recent Paralympics. Commissioner for Sports, Ananaba Nwobilor, highlighted the state’s achievements in the Under 15 National Youth Games, where Abia secured 31 medals, marking a historic 10th place overall.

He noted that significant investments in sports are yielding results, with young athletes now being developed abroad, including players on scholarships in the U.S. and loans in Europe. Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, stated that the planned court halls would meet 21st-century standards.