The Abia State Government has announced a committee to tackle the water crisis in the state.
This was disclosed to journalists on Monday evening by Prince Okey Kanu, Commissioner for Information, after the executive meeting.
Also, the state will extend its mass transit services to hinterland local governments, including Arochukwu, Umunneochi, and Ukwa East.This move is designed to ensure rural dwellers enjoy the same quality services as residents of Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia.
“We are committed to ensuring that rural dwellers benefit from modern services and the first batch of 40 buses is expected to arrive in November.
The Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu, reaffirmed that extortion complaints in markets would be thoroughly investigated.In addition to transportation reforms, the state government has unveiled a range of initiatives cutting across workers’ welfare, culture, infrastructure, health, and industrial development.
The Contributory Pension Scheme for public servants will be formally launched in September, with ten Pension Fund Administrators already approved for enlistment into the scheme.
The government has also approved a policy mandating civil servants to wear traditional outfits every Friday, while members of the Executive Council will wear traditional attire every first Monday of the month. This initiative aims to rekindle Igbo cultural pride and showcase indigenous craftsmanship.
“We are aware that there is an ongoing cultural revolution in the state, and this initiative will help strengthen our identity and promote locally made fabrics,” Kanu explained.
To improve traffic flow and safety, the government will intensify enforcement of traffic regulations, targeting offenders such as those driving against traffic, disobeying traffic lights, or picking up passengers in unauthorized spots.
“Individuals extorting traders at Ngwa Road market have been warned to desist or face prosecution,” Ukaegbu said.
In response to reports of water contamination in Ohanso, Ukwa East LGA, the government has set up an emergency management team led by Professor Joel Ogbonna, Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, to provide potable water.
Industrial development is also on the horizon, with earthworks commencing at the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP) following compensation payments to affected landowners.
“HSI Energies, developers of the Modular Refinery project within the park, are making significant progress, having secured almost all regulatory approvals.
According to Kanu, “This remedial action underscores the compassionate governance style of Governor Otti, providing immediate solutions to communities under danger.”
The government has also commenced road construction and rehabilitation across the state, with direct-labour projects ongoing in 55 locations, five of which have been completed in the past week.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
