The Abia State Government has received 17,000 applications for its ongoing teaching job recruitment and assures a merit-based process. Meanwhile, the Belgium Medical Mission completes 114 surgeries, the state surpasses its revenue target, and rural road maintenance kicks off in seven LGAs. Read more!
The Abia State Government has disclosed that it has received and processed 17,000 applications for its ongoing recruitment of teachers at the basic and secondary school levels.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, made this known while briefing journalists on the outcome of the week’s Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti. He assured that the recruitment exercise would be transparent, merit-based, and provide equal opportunities for all applicants.
“So far, about 17,000 applications have been received and processed, and the number is still counting. The shortlisted candidates will undergo a Computer-Based Test (CBT), and those who pass will proceed to the oral interview before final recruitment,” Kanu explained.
He emphasized that Governor Otti’s administration is committed to meritocracy and fairness, ensuring that only the best candidates are employed to enhance educational standards in the state.
Belgium Medical Mission: 114 Major Surgeries Conducted, Healthcare Boosted
Kanu also revealed that the Belgium Medical Mission has successfully concluded its intervention in the state, having conducted 114 major surgeries and attended to an additional 915 patients with various medical conditions.
As a result of the mission, the Abia State Government acquired a new set of sophisticated medical equipment for the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), further strengthening the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health is set to establish a new set of standards for medical outreaches in the state, ensuring quality and efficiency in future health programs.
IGR Surpasses N32bn Target, Sets Bold N120bn Goal for 2025
The Information Commissioner announced that the state government exceeded its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target of N32 billion for 2024, generating an impressive N39 billion.
With a renewed focus on revenue generation, the government has set a bold target of N120 billion for 2025, representing a 207% increase over the previous year’s benchmark.
“To achieve this, Governor Otti’s administration is embarking on key financial reforms aimed at boosting revenue collection and ensuring Abia citizens benefit from more developmental projects,” Kanu stated.
Fixing Rural Roads: Govt Begins 59km Road Maintenance in 7 LGAs
In a major infrastructural push, the Abia State Government has commenced the maintenance of 59 kilometers of rural roads under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP). The project, sponsored by the World Bank, covers the following seven local government areas:
Isuikwuato
Isiala Ngwa North
Isiala Ngwa South
Obingwa
Ikwuano
Ukwa East
Ugwunagbo
According to Kanu, the contractors will soon be mobilized to site to ensure swift execution of the project, which aligns with the administration’s rural development agenda.
Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Blessing Felix, noted that the road rehabilitation would greatly benefit local businesses and agricultural hubs, improving market access and reducing post-harvest losses.
“This project is part of Governor Otti’s commitment to empowering local businesses and ensuring that communities thrive through improved accessibility and robust agricultural development,” she emphasized.
Social Protection Policy for Vulnerable Groups
The Commissioner further revealed that the Abia State Social Protection Policy is undergoing final review. The policy aims to establish a functional and equitable social security system, targeting the most vulnerable groups in the state.
With a strong focus on poverty reduction, unemployment alleviation, and social stability, the government is working closely with relevant stakeholders to finalize and implement the initiative.
Govt’s Commitment to Persons with Disabilities
Kanu also highlighted the administration’s dedication to persons with disabilities, revealing that the state has adopted a deliberate policy to include ramps in public buildings and designated special parking lots for their convenience.
The press briefing was attended by Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, Commissioner for Education, Sir Kenechukwu Nwosu, and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Njoku Ukoha Njoku.