Abia State Government Vows to Settle Pension Arrears Before Year-end

In a decisive move, the Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to clearing all pension arrears for retired workers by the end of this year. This declaration was made during a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia on Monday. Mr. Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information and Culture, disclosed that the decision was a direct result of Governor Alex Otti's campaign promise to enhance the well-being of pensioners.

Kanu emphasized that an ongoing verification exercise is underway to authenticate genuine pensioners. Once this process is completed, the government is prepared to initiate prompt payments.

"Let me reiterate the government's stance to settle all outstanding pensions as soon as the verification exercise concludes. It is a promise made during the campaigns, and it will be fulfilled by the end of the year," Kanu asserted.

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Expressing satisfaction with the efficiency of the verification process, Kanu expressed optimism about its timely completion, possibly by next week. He commended the exercise for its exceptional execution, noting that the team even reached out to elderly pensioners unable to travel.

The Commissioner also highlighted the positive reception of the verification process, citing measures taken to assist those unable to attend in person, such as utilizing Sub-Treasury and providing online codes for those residing far from verification centers.

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In addition to the pension commitments, Kanu announced upcoming road reconstruction projects in Aba, including Kent by Ehi Road, People’s Road, Cemetery Road phase 2, and Omuma Road. Other roads set to receive attention include Ozu Abam - Ndi Okereke - Arochukwu Road and Umuahia - Uzuakoli - Ohafia - Arochukwu Road.

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Furthermore, Mr. Ogbonnia Okereke, the General Manager of Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), revealed the procurement and distribution of additional disposable trucks to Umuahia and Aba. This move supports the government's "Clean Up Abia Campaign," with the agency collaborating with the Abia State Orientation Agency to educate residents on improved waste management practices.

Okereke urged citizens to dispose of their waste responsibly and regularly pay their ASEPA dues.

In sports-related developments, Mr. Nwaobilor Ananaba, the Commissioner for Sports, announced the impending inauguration of members of the newly reconstituted Abia Warriors, Enyimba, and Abia Comets Football Clubs on Tuesday. Plans are also underway to upgrade the Umuahia Township Stadium to a world-class status. Ananaba added that the ministry would soon embark on a sensitization visit to schools across the state, promoting the importance of student participation in sporting activities.