Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Abia State Government has announced plans to launch a Contributory Pension Scheme for workers in the state public service.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Umuahia after the State Executive Council meeting.
According to him, the scheme is part of ongoing public service reforms aimed at improving the welfare of workers.
He described the initiative as “a clear demonstration of government’s unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of Abia workers.”
“The state government is set to formally launch its workers’ contributory pension scheme.
To this effect, ten Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) have been selected and approved for enlistment in the scheme.
Preparations are ongoing for the formal launch, while the exact date, time, and venue will be communicated in due course,” Kanu said.
The Commissioner also vowed that traffic offenders, particularly those driving against traffic, would be punished.
“The Abia State Government, through the Ministry of Transport, has reiterated its resolve to strengthen the enforcement of traffic rules and regulations across the state.
Offenders such as those who drive against traffic, traffic light violators, and commercial drivers who pick up passengers indiscriminately on the road—known as Akanelu—will be fined or prosecuted depending on the severity of the offence.
Touting in parks and along roads remains strictly prohibited,” he warned.
Kanu further cautioned individuals extorting traders, particularly at the Ngwa Road Market, to desist or face prosecution.
“Government has the details and identities of those involved in these unwholesome acts. This is the last opportunity for them to stop,” he added.
On transportation, the Commissioner announced that the State Executive Council had approved the extension of mass transit services to distant local government areas such as Arochukwu, Umunnochi, and Ukwa East. This would take effect after the state takes delivery of 40 new buses in November.
“This is in line with the government’s philosophy that ordinary citizens, especially those in the hinterlands, must also benefit from social services and programmes. Once fully operational, rural dwellers will enjoy the same quality transport services as those in Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia,” Kanu said.
Contributing, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, confirmed that the 40 buses would arrive in November and assured that allegations of extortion in markets, raised by journalists at the briefing, would be investigated.
“Revenue collection is not directly under my Ministry, but since this has been brought to my attention, I will investigate it,” he said.
