Abia Government to Recruit 4,000 More Teachers as Enrollment Surges

The Abia State Government has commenced the process of recruiting an additional 4,000 teachers before the end of the year.

Governor Alex Otti made this known while giving updates on key initiatives and developments across various sectors of the state during the media parley with journalists tagged ‘Governor Alex Otti Speaks to Abians’ on Thursday at the Government House, Umuahia.

According to the Governor, the recent wave of teacher postings revealed a drastic surge in student numbers, prompting schools to request more personnel despite the arrival of newly employed teachers.

“When I visited one of the schools last week, they complained of teacher shortages. We found out that enrollment had increased significantly,” the Governor said, noting that the current hiring phase will bridge the gap in manpower in the education sector.

He also revealed that many public schools are being retrofitted to meet the standards of “Smart Schools,” with teachers undergoing specialised training.

“The report I got is that our people are very excited about the training. But we insist on integrity tests before we start any process. Any school building not structurally sound will be brought down. It’s better than waiting for it to collapse while children are inside,” he stated.

On employment and economic growth, the Governor announced that the Waste Well Initiative will soon be launched as part of efforts to turn waste into energy and other useful products. He said engagements with potential partners have begun, and the program will also serve as a major employment generator.

In the health sector, 771 healthcare workers are currently undergoing oral interviews as part of a new recruitment drive. The Governor announced that applications had been received from across Africa, including countries such as Zimbabwe and South Africa. However, due to low application turnout in some areas, the state has instructed the Civil Service Commission to reopen the recruitment portal.

“We are calling on qualified healthcare professionals to apply. The recruitment process is merit-based and transparent,” he emphasised.

Addressing security, Governor Otti called for communal vigilance and cooperation with security agencies. “We want everyone to be the chief security officer of their homes and offices. If you see something, say something. I’ve delegated the chief security role to all of us,” he urged, encouraging citizens to report any suspicious activity to the police, DSS, or traditional rulers.

Under the “Light Up Abia” initiative, the Governor announced that 8,000 solar-powered streetlights have been installed across the state to enhance security and nighttime visibility.

Meanwhile, infrastructural development continues with the award of the 9.35-kilometre Ihechiowa ring road project, which is set to be flagged off in the coming days.

Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, development, and people-first governance, promising to keep the people informed as the transformation of Abia State continues.