Governor Alex Otti has signed 18 new executive bills into law to support his government’s reforms in Abia State. These new laws are expected to improve public services and make life better for residents across the state.
The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, shared this during a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia. He explained that the signing of these laws is part of activities celebrating the governor’s second year in office. As part of the celebration, former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has been touring ongoing projects in the state.
According to Kanu, the Abia State Government has already paid N3.5 billion as its share for several road and farming projects. This includes the repair of six major roads and the upgrade of five farm roads in 10 local government areas. The state will also build three farm produce storage and transport centers.
These projects fall under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Programme (RAAMP). With the state’s payment complete, work is expected to begin soon once the World Bank provides its own support. Many local areas in the state will benefit from the initiative.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, said that these newly signed bills bring the total number of executive laws passed under Governor Otti to 30.
Among the key new laws is the updated Abia Homeland Security Act. This law now includes a new Forest Guard unit, which follows the direction of President Bola Tinubu.
Another important law is the Abia State Bonds Act. It will allow the state government to raise funds through the capital market for major development projects.
Mr. Uwanna also announced that the Abia State Ombudsman and Public Complaints Commission has officially been created. This new body will help address public complaints and promote fairness and justice.
He further stated that the Abia State Estate Development Agency has been shut down. Its workers will now be moved to the Ministry of Lands. Additionally, the Umuahia Capital Development Agency, Abia Orientation Agency, and the Abia State Fire Service will now report to specific ministries instead of the governor. These ministries are Lands, Information, and Homeland Security.
Speaking on another new law, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Blessing Felix, said the governor has also signed the Abia Senior Citizens’ Bill. This law will ensure that all citizens aged 60 and above receive proper care and support from the government.
With these new laws, the Otti administration aims to build a better and more responsive government for the people of Abia State.
