The Abia State government has declared free and compulsory education for all children in the state, regardless of their state of origin.
Starting in January 2025, the policy will cover students from Primary 1 to Junior Secondary School 3 in all public schools.
Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, revealed this decision following a meeting of the State Executive Council. He warned that parents or guardians who fail to comply with the policy would face legal consequences.
“In accordance with the Abia Child’s Rights Law 2006, it is now illegal for parents to withhold their children from school, as education is now free and mandatory,” Kanu stated.
This initiative is part of Governor Alex Otti’s administration’s broader goal to provide accessible and quality education to all.
Relocation of Abia University Law Faculty
Kanu also confirmed the irreversible decision to move the Law Faculty of Abia State University from the Umuahia campus back to the main campus in Uturu. This relocation, he explained, was made in the public interest.
New Road Rehabilitation Projects
The Commissioner further announced that contracts for the rehabilitation of nine additional roads across the state had been awarded, with further details to be shared soon. He also addressed issues related to the implementation of the new minimum wage.
Additionally, the Governor has instructed immediate repairs to the failed portion of the Osisioma flyover, a key project from the previous administration under Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu. Kanu expressed disappointment that the flyover, a signature project, began deteriorating within two years.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, clarified that while cracks in the flyover were widening, they did not pose an immediate danger.
