Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, has made a significant donation of N1 billion to teachers in the state. The amount will be domiciled in the Teachers' Appreciation Fund and shared equally among all serving teachers, irrespective of their individual status. This gesture is a demonstration of the governor's appreciation for the contributions of teachers to the development of Abia and the upbringing of its children.
The donation was announced during the 2026 World Teachers' Day celebration held in Umuahia. Governor Otti also directed the Accountant-General of the state to distribute the money equally among all teachers. He emphasized that the gesture is a token of appreciation for the hard work and dedication of teachers in the state. The governor's spokesperson made this announcement during the celebration.
Governor Otti also issued a series of directives aimed at improving the welfare of teachers in the state. He directed that outstanding check-off dues owed to teachers be paid within seven days. The governor stated that if the dues had not been paid, it was likely that the account had not been provided, as the money was already available.
In addition to the donation, Governor Otti directed that all teachers whose salaries were delayed due to verification issues must be paid no later than the end of October. He also directed the Accountant-General to immediately pay salaries owed to 4,075 newly recruited teachers who had not yet been paid. The governor emphasized that this should be done before the end of October 2026.
Governor Otti also addressed the issue of promotions for teachers. He stated that the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB) was working to complete the outstanding 2021 and 2022 promotions. The governor directed ASUBEB to harmonize the process with the Head of Service and submit it to him for approval. He emphasized that the exercise must be completed no later than the end of October 2026.
Furthermore, Governor Otti directed the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education to reinstate any teacher below 65 years who had been disengaged. He emphasized that this should be done immediately, adding that even if it was six months before retirement, the teacher should be brought back. The governor stated that he had given the approval for this and that no further approval was needed.
The governor's administration is committed to fairness and transparency, and he thanked teachers for turning out in large numbers for the celebration. He emphasized that their presence demonstrated their commitment to the government and the education sector. Governor Otti also assured teachers that his administration would sustain its policy of free and compulsory education.
Key points
- Governor Otti donates N1 billion to Abia teachers
- Governor Otti orders immediate reinstatement of disengaged teachers below 65 years
- Governor Otti directs payment of outstanding check-off dues and salaries owed to teachers
