Civil servants at the Government House in Umuahia have welcomed the commencement of payment for their long-awaited Annual Leave Allowance by Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti. The workers described the move as a significant step toward restoring dignity and confidence within the state’s civil service.

Receiving the staff, the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, thanked them for voluntarily gathering to show appreciation, emphasizing that their presence reflected genuine acknowledgment rather than compulsion.

Pastor Ajagba highlighted that the administration’s developmental initiatives across Abia State are rooted in Governor Otti’s campaign promises to improve governance and the welfare of workers. He noted that salary and pension arrears had been cleared, and regular monthly payments have been maintained since June 27, 2023.

He further explained that the governor’s reforms aim to restore confidence and dignity in the civil service through consistent salary payments, implementation of the new minimum wage, payment of 13th-month salaries, and now the settlement of outstanding leave allowances owed for several years.

Finally, Ajagba encouraged civil servants to reciprocate the gesture with increased dedication, productivity, and commitment to their duties.