During a recent interaction with journalists in Umuahia, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti revealed that the Islamic Development Bank has greenlit a significant loan of $125 million for the state, along with additional funding in the works from the African Development Bank (AfDB).
“We have received approval from the Islamic Development Bank for $125 million under AB Seed, as well as funding from the African Development Bank,” Otti stated.
Highlighting the prudent approach to borrowing, Otti emphasized that the loans will only be drawn upon as needed, ensuring responsible financial management. “We do not want to draw loans until we need them and will repay when we have liquidity, and we will pay later,” he affirmed.
Addressing concerns about wage awards and pension issues, Governor Otti assured workers of his administration’s commitment to resolving these matters. He mentioned the establishment of a committee to address wage-related issues and promised imminent resolution for pensioners.
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The governor also outlined ambitious plans for infrastructure development, particularly in the areas of road rehabilitation, healthcare, and education. He pledged to prioritize the refurbishment of 170 primary schools and 51 secondary schools, aiming to complete all rehabilitation projects within the year.
“Abia will continue with our massive road rehabilitation, light up Abia, improvement in the health system and the resolve to retrieve the education system that has been going down,” Otti affirmed.
Furthermore, Otti underscored the importance of modernizing the education sector to equip students with relevant skills for the 21st century. He outlined initiatives to train teachers in areas such as internet literacy, renewable energy, and digital technology, ensuring Abia students remain competitive globally.
“We have designed the best models for Abia schools so that the Abia standard schools will look a certain way,” Otti remarked.
In the realm of healthcare, Otti reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery services across the state. Additionally, he emphasized initiatives aimed at ensuring food security, stating that efforts are underway to cultivate all available land in Abia during the upcoming planting season.
As the state prepares to embark on ambitious development projects, Otti expressed gratitude for the support received from multilateral agencies. He assured the public of the government’s dedication to delivering tangible improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and food security.
