The Abia State Government has disclosed plans to roll out a new economic and business policy aimed at strengthening the state’s local economy through the promotion of Made-in-Abia products.
This was made known by the State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, during a press briefing held on Monday in Umuahia following the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
Kanu revealed that the details of the policy framework will be unveiled in the coming weeks, adding that it is designed to ensure that goods and services used within the state are sourced locally.
“This is a bold reaction to the unraveling of both the national and global economies, as well as the inflationary pressures currently facing the country,” he said. “As a forward-thinking administration, the Abia State Government is intentional about managing its economy to enhance local production and economic sustainability.”
He noted that Governor Otti recently hosted representatives of Ethnorcentrique Limited, a firm known for promoting indigenous fabrics like Akwete, and reiterated his administration’s commitment to advancing local products.
On education, the Commissioner announced the conclusion of the final phase of the state’s teachers’ recruitment exercise, which included certificate verification and oral interviews.
About 7,000 candidates who scored 45 percent and above, along with 180 persons with disabilities, were shortlisted and interviewed.
He added that those who scored between 40 and 44 percent have been placed on a reserve list to address any shortfalls.
A 30-member panel comprising university professors, PhD holders, retired permanent secretaries, and top educationists conducted the interviews, reflecting the state’s commitment to high standards.
To accommodate those who missed the first phase, Kanu revealed that the State Executive Council has approved a fresh round of teachers’ recruitment.
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The new exercise will help create a comprehensive database of qualified educators for future needs.
In a stern warning, the government cautioned principals and school heads against collecting illegal fees from students in public primary and junior secondary schools, in defiance of the state’s free education policy.
Kanu warned that offenders would face severe sanctions, including dismissal.
He noted that imprest funds are now provided to school heads for routine expenses, eliminating the need for unofficial levies.
Touching on recent security issues, Kanu confirmed the killing of two Chinese nationals and a police officer by suspected bandits in the Uturu area.
He said police swiftly responded and rescued other members of the group, while investigations are ongoing to uncover the motive behind the attack.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining security, enforcing policy reforms, and ensuring economic stability in the state.