Nigerian gov spends over N40bn on payment salaries, pension arrears

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has disclosed that more than ₦40 billion has been expended by his administration to settle outstanding salaries and pension obligations over the last two years.

The governor made this announcement in Umuahia on Thursday during an event commemorating the second anniversary of his administration. Themed “Transformative Governance: Sustaining the Momentum,” the event highlighted key achievements under his leadership.

Otti emphasized that this financial commitment was part of efforts to restore the dignity of civil servants and retirees in the state.

“Prompt salary and pension payments had become an integral part of the system with workers now paid by the 28th of every month,” he said.

He added that pensioners now receive their full entitlements monthly, ending the past practice of partial disbursements.

Among the notable strides mentioned was the complete refurbishment of the previously neglected Nnamdi Azikiwe Secretariat, which now accommodates around 1,000 government employees. The governor also announced the introduction of digital filing systems in place of manual processes, supported by the distribution of computers to government offices.

Otti shared that the state government had reached an agreement with telecommunications giant MTN to provide comprehensive network coverage across Abia by December 31, 2025. MTN is also set to launch the first-ever Aba Digital Mall to enhance local trade and online commerce.

In the education sector, the governor reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to allocating 20% of the state budget to education. He said construction of smart schools was ongoing across all 17 Local Government Areas.

“The state’s free basic education policy had increased enrolment, prompting the transparent recruitment of 5,300 new teachers earlier this year,” he said.

To keep pace with rising student numbers, Otti said another 4,000 educators would soon be hired. He also assured that the recruitment would be merit-based, with equal opportunities for all, regardless of background or ethnicity.

On healthcare, the governor noted that over 100 Primary Healthcare Centres had been renovated, with formal commissioning scheduled for June 1. Renovations are also ongoing at ten general hospitals and two specialist facilities.

Otti announced plans for a “medical village” to curb outbound medical tourism and establish Abia as a leading destination for healthcare in Nigeria.

Addressing security, the governor praised the efforts of Operation Crush, the state-backed security initiative that, according to him, has reclaimed troubled communities like Umunneochi and Isuikwuato from criminal elements.

He commended security personnel “for their sacrifice and commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.”

On infrastructure, the governor said several roads in Umuahia, Aba, and surrounding areas are ready for commissioning from June 1. He reiterated his government’s commitment to transparency and efficient use of public resources.

Highlighting economic growth, Otti said the state had invested ₦1 billion to support 10,000 nano-businesses in a bid to stimulate entrepreneurship and alleviate economic hardship.

On power supply, he stated that Geometric Power had reached a generation capacity of 141 megawatts, with expectations for increased output as a fourth turbine becomes operational. Discussions are ongoing with Enugu DISCO to create a power island for Umuahia, similar to the arrangement already in place for Aba.

The administration, he said, has also installed nearly 7,000 solar-powered streetlights to boost security and promote a round-the-clock economy.

Otti also highlighted improved sanitation, saying Abia has shifted from being among Nigeria’s dirtiest states to one of the cleanest, crediting citizens for adopting cleaner habits and shared environmental responsibility.

He extended his appreciation to public servants, health workers, and sanitation staff for their dedication and credited the administration’s progress to divine guidance and the steadfast support of Abians.

He expressed gratitude “for their support before, during, and after the 2023 elections,” reaffirming his commitment to “building a functional, safe, and prosperous Abia for all.”

In goodwill messages, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and Chief Ginger Onwusibe praised the governor’s developmental strides and urged continued public support for state policies.

Speaker of the Abia House of Assembly, Chief Emmanuel Emeruwa, and his deputy, Mr. Austin Mmeregini, echoed these sentiments and passed a vote of confidence on the governor. They pledged legislative backing to help advance his rebuilding agenda.

The event drew attendance from prominent figures, including former deputy governor Chief Ude Oko-Chukwu and past Ohafia LGA chairman, among other dignitaries.