By Samuel Anyanwu
Umuahia, Abia State – The Abia State Government has received an overwhelming 17,000 applications for its ongoing teacher recruitment exercise at the basic and secondary school levels. In addition to strengthening the state’s education sector, the government has also launched an ambitious 59-kilometer rural road rehabilitation project to boost local economies and agricultural productivity.
These announcements were made by Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, during a press briefing on the outcome of this week’s executive council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to merit-based recruitment, transparency, and inclusive development initiatives.
Massive Interest in Teaching Positions
The large number of applications underscores the high demand for employment opportunities in Abia State’s education sector. According to Prince Kanu, the selection process will be rigorous and transparent, ensuring that only the most qualified candidates are employed.
“So far, about 17,000 applications have been received and processed, and more are still coming in,” the Commissioner stated. “The shortlisted candidates will first undergo a Computer-Based Test (CBT), after which successful applicants will face an oral interview before final selection.”
He assured applicants that the entire process would be strictly merit-based, giving equal opportunity to all qualified individuals.
Belgium Medical Mission Leaves Impactful Legacy
In a significant healthcare milestone, the Belgium Medical Mission successfully conducted 114 major surgeries and attended to an additional 915 patients with various medical conditions in the state.
The Commissioner revealed that the mission facilitated the acquisition of state-of-the-art medical equipment for the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), where the medical outreach took place. Moving forward, the state’s Ministry of Health will introduce new standards for medical outreaches to improve healthcare services across Abia.
Abia’s Revenue Surges Beyond Target
Prince Kanu also highlighted the state government’s financial achievements, revealing that Abia exceeded its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target of ₦32 billion in 2024, achieving an impressive ₦39 billion instead.
Buoyed by this success, the state government has set an ambitious target of ₦120 billion for 2025, representing a 207% increase from the previous year. To achieve this, the government is implementing bold economic reforms aimed at boosting revenue generation and expanding developmental programs.
Major Boost for Rural Infrastructure: 59-Kilometer Road Project Unveiled
The Commissioner also announced the commencement of a major rural road rehabilitation project, covering 59 kilometers across seven local government areas (LGAs) under the Abia State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP).
The World Bank-assisted project will improve rural infrastructure in:
- Isuikwuato
- Isiala Ngwa North
- Isiala Ngwa South
- Obingwa
- Ikwuano
- Ukwa East
- Ugwunagbo
Prince Kanu emphasized that contractors will be mobilized to the sites soon, adding that the project aligns with Governor Otti’s agenda to enhance rural development and agricultural productivity.
“This initiative is designed to enhance accessibility to rural areas, facilitate agricultural marketing, and reduce post-harvest losses,” the Commissioner stated.
Commitment to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
Reaffirming Abia’s commitment to disability inclusion, Prince Kanu noted that the state government recently marked Abia State Disabilities Day with a two-day celebration organized by the Disabilities Commission.
As a significant policy shift, the state has adopted a mandatory provision of ramps in all public buildings and designated special parking lots for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Social Protection Policy Underway
The Commissioner also disclosed that Abia is working on a comprehensive Social Protection Policy aimed at providing security for vulnerable groups, addressing poverty, unemployment, and social tensions.
The policy was recently reviewed in a stakeholders’ workshop, with the goal of creating a functional system that ensures equity and economic stability for all residents.
Empowering Local Businesses Through Infrastructure Development
Also speaking at the press briefing, Mrs. Blessing Felix, Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, emphasized that the rural road project will have a transformational impact on local businesses and agriculture.
“This initiative is part of Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to empowering local businesses,” Felix stated. “Many small-scale farmers and traders depend on accessible roads to sustain their livelihoods.”
She further explained that the project is part of a broader effort to establish agricultural hubs, rehabilitate key rural roads, and improve connectivity for farmers and traders.
A Government Focused on Development
The briefing was attended by key government officials, including:
- Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma – Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity
- Sir Kenechukwu Nwosu – Commissioner for Education
- Mr. Njoku Ukoha Njoku – Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
Their presence underscored the government’s unified approach to governance and commitment to delivering sustainable development projects across Abia State.
With education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social protection at the forefront of its agenda, Governor Alex Otti’s administration is positioning Abia State for a brighter future, ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
