Abia leave allowance payment begins as workers praise Governor Alex Otti for clearing long-standing arrears and boosting staff morale

Workers at the Government House, Umuahia, on Monday praised Governor Alex Otti following the commencement of payment of their annual leave allowances, many of which had been outstanding for years.

Also read: UACN Secures N54bn Bond Listing on FMDQ Exchange

The civil servants gathered at the Government House to express appreciation, describing the development as a marked improvement over previous administrations, where leave allowances were often delayed or unpaid.

Receiving the workers, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, said the payment was part of a broader effort to restore dignity and confidence in the state’s civil service.

“I want to let you know that what you have done today by showing this level of gratitude without anyone telling you will make His Excellency think of doing more for you,” Pastor Ajagba said.

He highlighted that since assuming office in 2023, Governor Otti had prioritised workers’ welfare through the clearance of salary and pension arrears and the regular payment of monthly salaries.

“Today it’s very clear, even to the blind, that help has arrived — targeted and focused on Abians, specifically the workforce. Outstandings of salaries, pensions, and now leave allowances have reached those who have been owed for years,” he added.

The Chief of Staff also noted the administration’s commitment to the payment of the 13th-month salary and the implementation of the new minimum wage, urging civil servants to remain committed to their duties.

Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Kingsley Nwokocha, said the government was engaging labour unions on other outstanding welfare issues, including promotions and entitlements, assuring workers that their concerns were being addressed.

Director-in-Charge of Government House, Mrs Onyedikachi Ogwo, explained that the workforce had voluntarily visited the Chief of Staff to convey their gratitude for the government’s consistent attention to staff welfare.

Chairman of the Staff Welfare Association of Government House, Comrade Oluchi Ubani, said the payment had boosted morale and appealed for the fast-tracking of promotions.

Also read: Benue Lawmaker Urges Action Amid Rising Killings

The event was attended by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma; Special Adviser on Investment Promotion and PPP, High Chief Green Amakwe; Senior Special Assistant on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Magdalene Ugoanusi; and the Director-General of the Strategic Communications Bureau, Onyebunche Ememanka.