State employees in Abia region gathered Monday to commend Governor Alex Otti for initiating payments of long-overdue annual leave allowances, a move they described as a morale booster after years of neglect.
Dozens of workers from the Government House converged to express thanks, marking what officials called a key step in revitalizing the civil service under Otti’s leadership since 2023.
Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, addressing the group, conveyed the governor’s appreciation for their unsolicited gesture. “I want to, on behalf of His Excellency, thank each and every one of you this afternoon for finding time to come around to show appreciation to His Excellency,” he said. “I’m not sure that anyone asked you. Nobody forced you.”
Ajagba highlighted broader welfare reforms, including settling salary and pension backlogs, ensuring timely monthly disbursements, continuing 13th-month bonuses, and adopting the updated minimum wage. “Today it’s very clear to everyone, even the blind, that help has arrived,” he added, emphasizing targeted support for workers owed allowances for “several years.”
Labour and Productivity Commissioner Kingsley Nwokocha affirmed ongoing dialogues with unions on remaining concerns, such as stalled promotions, framing the allowances as integral to sectoral improvements.
Government House Director Onyedikachi Ogwo noted the visit stemmed from gratitude for sustained focus on employee well-being.
Staff Welfare Association Chairman Oluchi Ubani echoed the sentiment, saying the payments had lifted spirits but urged expedited action on career advancements.
The assembly included senior aides like media adviser Ferdinand Ekeoma and investment promotion specialist Green Amakwe, underscoring the administration’s emphasis on labor harmony.
