Dr. Alex Otti announces sweeping labour reforms during Abia’s 2025 Workers Day. From pay raise to new hires, read the full powerful speech here.
…N70K Minimum Wage, Teachers & Health Workers Recruitment, Secretariats Upgraded, and New Work Ethic Introduced in Abia State
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex C. Otti, OFR, has once again reinforced his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and state-wide transformation as he addressed a mammoth gathering of workers at the 2025 International Workers Day celebration held at the Umuahia Township Stadium on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
In a speech titled “Partnership for Transformation,” Governor Otti praised Abia workers for embracing the principles and standards of the “New Abia”, describing them as vital stakeholders in the state’s rebirth. He paid glowing tributes to their dedication and sacrifices, reaffirming that they remain at the heart of his government’s development agenda.
N70K Minimum Wage Now in Effect
Governor Otti confirmed that Abia is one of the first states in Nigeria to adopt and fully implement the new national minimum wage of N70,000. “We are not just paying it,” he said, “we are doing so promptly and regularly.” He added that certain critical sectors in the state are even receiving wages above the minimum wage.
9–5 Culture Abolished as Abia Embraces 24-Hour Work Ethic
Otti emphasized a complete cultural shift in the work environment, noting that the old 9-to-5 mentality was fading. “In the New Abia, you go home not because it’s 5pm, but because your tasks for the day are completed,” he declared. He lauded public servants who now voluntarily arrive earlier and even work weekends to add value to their offices.
Over N30 Billion Committed to Salary and Pension Arrears
Acknowledging the failings of previous administrations, the Governor revealed that over N30 billion has already been spent to clear backlogs of unpaid salaries and pensions. He reiterated his administration’s monthly deadline of the 28th for prompt payments and promised continued prioritization of workers’ welfare.
New Teachers and Health Workers Recruited
Responding to last year’s demands, Otti announced that 5,000 new teachers had already been employed through a transparent process. He added that a fresh batch of 4,000 teachers and technologists will soon be recruited. In the health sector, he approved the employment of 771 new personnel to match the ongoing upgrade of over 200 health facilities across the state.
Major Upgrades to Civil Service Infrastructure
Highlighting improved working conditions, Otti detailed recent renovations at the Nnamdi Azikiwe and New Secretariat complexes, where power, water supply, and internet connectivity have been restored. The Civil Service Commission now operates from a modern complex, and new office buildings for several Government House units are nearing completion.
Inclusive Governance and Justice for Unlawfully Sacked Workers
The Governor decried past instances where workers were sacked based on their state of origin. He pledged to compensate affected individuals and reassured that Abia will remain an inclusive, non-discriminatory state that values hard work above all else.
Health Insurance Programme Expanded
Otti also revealed that a formal sector health insurance scheme, targeting civil servants, has already enrolled over 20,000 participants. The programme is expected to drastically reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and boost the wellbeing of state workers.
Workers’ Requests Under Review
Governor Otti acknowledged requests made by labour unions during the event and promised a thorough review. “Each request shall be painstakingly considered,” he assured, “subject to the availability of resources.”
Message of Hope Amid Economic Challenges
In closing, the Governor addressed the theme of the celebration, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” and encouraged workers to stay hopeful despite the country’s economic strain. “It is not the end of the road,” he said, “together, we shall smile again.”
The Governor’s message was a bold declaration of policy direction and an open recognition of labour as a key partner in Abia’s transformation agenda.
“We shall always put you first because you deserve no less,” he concluded
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