Abia Government Workers Receive Long-Overdue Leave Allowances

Workers at the Government House in Umuahia, Abia State, have expressed appreciation to Governor Alex Otti following the commencement of payments for annual leave allowances, some of which had been pending for several years.

In a spontaneous gesture on Monday, staff gathered to thank the administration, highlighting that the move represents a shift from previous years when such allowances were often irregular or unpaid.

Receiving the workers on behalf of the Governor, Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba stated that the payment is part of a broader effort to restore dignity and confidence in the state’s civil service. He commended the workers for their voluntary show of gratitude.

Ajagba noted that since taking office in 2023, the governor has prioritized worker welfare, citing the clearance of salary and pension arrears, consistent monthly payments, and the implementation of the new minimum wage and 13th-month salary.

“When help comes, it is focused and targeted,” Ajagba stated, emphasizing that the administration’s efforts are deliberately aimed at supporting the workforce. He encouraged civil servants to reciprocate the gesture through continued dedication to their duties.

Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Kingsley Nwokocha, indicated that the government remains in dialogue with labour unions to address other pending welfare matters, including promotions. He described the leave allowance payment as one component of ongoing labour sector reforms.

The Chairman of the Staff Welfare Association, Comrade Oluchi Ubani, confirmed that the payment has significantly boosted staff morale, as the allowance had not been paid for a long period. She appealed for the expedited processing of staff promotions.

The event was attended by several senior government officials, including the Special Advisers on Media and Publicity, and Investment Promotion, among others.