On Friday, September 13, 2024, staff of Abia State Polytechnic in Aba were seen rejoicing after receiving their long-awaited salary arrears. The moment was captured in a video that quickly gained attention online, showing the staff kneeling to thank God and offering prayers for the state governor, Alex Otti.

This celebration follows the state government’s earlier commitment to offset the N16.5 billion in unpaid salaries owed to staff of state-owned institutions, including Abia Polytechnic. In June 2024, the Abia State government, led by Governor Otti, announced a structured plan to clear these debts in installments, which were accumulated during the previous administration.

Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Mike Akpara, while addressing journalists in Umuahia, explained that the current administration had inherited the N16.5 billion debt but was determined to clear it while also ensuring the state’s economy continued to thrive. He further assured that civil servants who are owed salaries would also receive payments in stages.

On Friday, the first group of staff received their overdue payments, sparking a wave of jubilation. The emotional moment, shared in the video, shows the staff expressing their gratitude and praying for the leadership of Governor Otti, whose efforts have provided much-needed relief.

The payment of salary arrears represents a significant milestone for the administration, which is working to address financial challenges left by previous leadership while making progress in other sectors of the economy.