Following the controversies that have trailed the proposed Abia State Airport project, with some citizens questioning the necessity of the facility given that airports surround the state, Governor, Alex Otti has clarified that the project is primarily a Federal Government initiative, with the state government contributing through runway upgrades.
During his monthly press briefing on Friday night, Otti also revealed that his administration has finalised measures to ensure a secure 2024 yuletide season for residents and visitors.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance the state’s security architecture to tackle emerging crime trends in certain areas.
The governor assured the people of the state, especially those returning from the diaspora, of their safety during the festivities.
Additionally, Otti noted that Southeast governors are working collaboratively to address insecurity in the region, aiming for long-term solutions.
“It (collaboration) is possible and we are doing just that. When you are dealing with security, terrains also have something to do with it. Your terrain is such that criminals can build hideouts and camps.
“Don’t forget that virtually all the security agencies are involved in the centre, even though governors are Chief security officers. The reality is that security in the country as we have it today and until that changes. So, collaboration is possible and we are doing that,” he said.
On the new national minimum wage, Otti stated that its implementation began in October.
He further directed that any outstanding issues related to consequential adjustments be resolved promptly.
The governor assured all that the December salary and 13th-month bonus would be paid on or before December 20.
Fielding question on the report that some Permanent Secretaries and other civil servants earlier disengaged were yet to get their entitlements, the governor said he had directed the Accountant-General of the state to address the issue, assuring that all concerned will get what is due them.
The governor said his administration has commenced the implementation of the recommendation of the white paper report of the visitation panel of Abia State University Uturu, promising to implement all recommendations to the letter as to enable the institution to stand out in the comity of tertiary institutions across the country.
