The Abia State Government has announced free and compulsory education for all children in the state, regardless of their state of origin.
This policy, which takes effect in January 2025, will cover primary to Junior Secondary School (JSS3) levels in all public schools.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, revealed this development during a press briefing following the State Executive Council meeting.
He emphasized that parents and guardians who fail to comply with the new directive will face prosecution under the Abia Child’s Rights Law of 2006.
“In line with the existing law, it is now an offense for parents not to send their children or wards to school since the government has made education free and compulsory,” Kanu stated.
The initiative aligns with Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to providing quality and accessible education to the people of Abia State.
Relocation of Abia State University Law Faculty
The government also reiterated its decision to relocate the Law Faculty of Abia State University from its Umuahia campus back to the main campus in Uturu, citing public interest as the primary reason.
Infrastructure and Minimum Wage Updates
The Commissioner further announced the approval of contracts for the rehabilitation of nine additional roads across the state, with more details to be provided soon.
He also addressed concerns related to the implementation of the new minimum wage, assuring that the government would resolve all outstanding issues.
Regarding infrastructure repairs, Kanu disclosed that Governor Otti has instructed the Commissioner for Works to urgently fix the deteriorating Osisioma flyover, constructed under the previous administration of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.
He noted that the structure, which was commissioned less than two years ago, is already showing significant signs of damage.
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, confirmed that while the flyover’s structural issues are visible, they do not currently pose an immediate threat to safety.
