Governor Alex Otti’s announcement of December and 13th-month salaries before December 20 for Abia Workers, coupled with a promise to rework the salary structure, has sparked widespread celebration among Abia State workers.
Abia State workers are in high spirits following the announcement by Governor Alex Otti that both the December salary and a 13th-month salary bonus will be paid before December 20, 2024. This groundbreaking commitment, along with a promise to rework the state’s salary structure, has sparked widespread celebration among civil servants and labor unions in the state.
Governor Otti made these pledges during a crucial meeting held on December 2, 2024, with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and other affiliate bodies. The meeting, which took place at the Government House, Umuahia, was attended by top officials, including NLC Chairman Comrade Ogbonnaya Okoro.
During the meeting, Governor Otti acknowledged reports of discrepancies in the implementation of the New National Minimum Wage, which began in October 2024. He expressed his commitment to resolving these issues promptly and instructed his team to re-evaluate the salary structure to ensure fairness.
“I have instructed my team to re-examine the salary structure,” Otti assured. “In the next few days, we will engage with the leadership of the labor unions to make the necessary adjustments. This administration will ensure that no worker is left behind.”
Otti also dismissed claims that Abia State was lagging in the implementation of the minimum wage, emphasizing that the state was one of the first to commence its implementation in October.
The announcement of the 13th-month salary which started in 2023 has been met with enthusiasm from workers across the state. Many described it as a refreshing departure from the neglect experienced under previous administrations.
“The 13th-month salary is a game-changer. It shows that this government is committed to our welfare,” said a jubilant worker from the Ministry of Health.
Governor Otti also took the opportunity to address concerns raised by pensioners regarding arrears dating back to 2014.
“Since April 2024, pensioners have been receiving their full pensions on the 28th of every month,” Otti stated. “We are committed to fulfilling our promises and ensuring that pensioners receive their entitlements without delay.”
He commended the Concerned Abia Pensioners group for speaking up in defense of the government’s efforts, urging others to recognize the significant strides made in pension payments.
In response, NLC Chairman Comrade Ogbonnaya Okoro expressed gratitude to the Governor for his commitment to the welfare of workers and his proactive approach to resolving the salary structure issues.
“We are grateful for the Governor’s listening ear and swift action in addressing our concerns. The labor unions will continue to support this administration to ensure its success,” Okoro stated.
Other union leaders echoed similar sentiments, noting that the current administration’s policies have transformed the working conditions in Abia State.
Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to making Abia a model state, he thanked the workforce for their unwavering support and described them as essential stakeholders in the state’s rebuilding process.
“Our workers are the backbone of this administration. Together, we will rebuild Abia and set a new standard for governance in Nigeria,” Otti affirmed.
Union representatives, including leaders from the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Joint Negotiating Council, praised Governor Otti’s open-door policy and his commitment to workers’ welfare.
“Abia workers have never had it so good. Governor Otti is truly a workers’ governor, and we are proud to stand with him,” one union leader declared.
