Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has assured residents that 2026 will bring stronger economic progress for the state, with the government beginning to clear long-standing gratuity arrears that date back to the early 2000s. This announcement was made during his New Year broadcast on Thursday, reflecting on the achievements of his administration over the past 31 months.
Governor Otti explained that the New Year presents an opportunity to consolidate the gains made so far while laying the foundation for further growth and development. He stated that the government will focus on improving critical transport infrastructure, encouraging investment in productive assets, creating jobs, and boosting the state’s economy by reducing production costs.
As part of his plans, Otti said the state will allocate around N5 billion to manpower training and development, ensuring that public institutions function efficiently and contribute meaningfully to service delivery. The governor also highlighted ongoing engagements with federal agencies and private sector players to expand housing supply for low-income earners while encouraging high-end property investment by institutional investors.
In education, Otti said the administration will continue to transform primary and secondary schools into interactive and participatory learning hubs. The government intends to restore and upgrade science and technical schools while ensuring stricter supervision to reduce indiscipline and truancy. He noted that 20 percent of the state’s budget in 2026 will be devoted to education, maintaining the gains achieved in previous years.
Agriculture will also receive focused attention, with modern technology used to link farmers to farm assets. Additionally, the administration plans to provide social and economic support to women and mothers, and empower youth to remain competitive in the current environment. Special consideration will also be given to persons living with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity in state policies, projects, and welfare programs.
Governor Otti described 2026 as a politically important year, with preparations for Nigeria’s next general elections underway. He encouraged eligible citizens to participate in the Continuous Voter Registration exercise conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
The governor warned that Abia State would remain safe for residents and visitors, cautioning that unlawful actions would be met with strict enforcement of the law. He urged all stakeholders to cooperate, including paying taxes, which he described as an investment in the growth of businesses and the state’s development goals.
With these measures, Governor Otti aims to strengthen the state’s economic framework, enhance living standards, and ensure that residents benefit from both government and private sector initiatives in 2026.