Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has implemented bold measures to drastically reduce the cost of governance in the state, with the aim of saving money and promoting financial stability. Speaking at his monthly media interactive session held at the Government House in Umuahia, Governor Otti emphasized the importance of curbing unnecessary spending in order to achieve economic growth and development.
Under Otti’s administration, money that was previously wasted on frivolous expenses by past administrations has been redirected towards essential expenditures such as the timely payment of salaries, pensions, and funding for ongoing developmental projects. The governor affirmed that this prudent financial management has been made possible by cutting down unnecessary expenses and emphasizing the need for individuals to earn their money through hard work.
Efforts are also being made to ensure that the state’s resources are handled by professionals, who will leverage their expertise to optimize results. Governor Otti assured the people of Abia that their money is in safe hands and pledged his commitment to financial reengineering for the benefit of the state.
Unlike previous administrations, Governor Otti’s government has refrained from taking loans to execute projects in Abia. This cautious approach is due to the significant loan burden inherited from the previous administration, which amounts to N192 billion. However, Governor Otti acknowledged the possibility of borrowing in the future to finance key projects and revealed that discussions with financial institutions have already taken place.
The governor stressed that borrowing would be solely for capital projects that foster sustainable development, and not for frivolous expenditures. Thanks to the discontinued wasteful spending of past administrations, contractors have been mobilized to work on various projects, signaling the positive changes in governance.
Governor Otti’s administration has set its sights on the reconstruction of Aba, the state’s most vital commercial and industrial hub. The revitalization of Aba is expected to significantly boost the state’s internally generated revenue. Governor Otti’s emphasis on mindful spending and prudent financial management ensures that resources are allocated efficiently for the benefit of the state.
Regarding local government administration, acting chairmen are presently overseeing the affairs of the 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs). Transition Committee Chairmen will be appointed to run the councils until local government elections can be held. The governor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promptly paying salaries and pensions, and he addressed concerns of some workers being underpaid by emphasizing that the government does not have a policy of shortchanging civil servants.
In order to address any issues relating to salaries and pensions, Governor Otti urged workers to write to the acting Head of Service and relevant agencies for redress. The ongoing verification exercise for workers and pensioners aims to accurately determine the number of individuals on the state government’s payroll, ultimately leading to improved payroll management.
The education sector is also a priority for Governor Otti’s administration. The government is focused on enhancing the education system and standard in Abia State. Plans are underway to construct public schools with modern facilities such as laboratories, conducive learning environments, and staff quarters. Private schools are expected to upgrade their facilities to meet the newly-established standards set by public schools.
Governor Otti expressed his deep gratitude to the people of Abia for their overwhelming support and assured them that he would not betray their trust. His administration remains committed to the development and progress of Abia State.
NAN
