Big Relief as Abia Govt Commences N61bn Pension Arrears Payment

Retirees in Abia State are experiencing a significant relief as the administration of Governor Alex Otti has begun the process of paying N61.8 billion in overdue gratuities owed to retired state and local government workers. This decision, announced by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, represents the government's commitment to worker welfare and responsible governance.

The outstanding debt accumulated over 24 years, with the majority owed from 2011 to May 29, 2023, and the remaining amount from May 30, 2023, to the present. Kanu clarified that the administration recognizes the impracticality of clearing the entire debt within the first three years of the administration, but they have opted for a responsible and compassionate approach to address the issue.

The payment process, set to be technology-driven and transparent, will see beneficiaries receive their payments directly through a dedicated platform linked to the state's Treasury Single Account, with biometric validation to prevent duplication and fraud. Priority will be given to the oldest outstanding obligations, and the payments will be structured to reflect the state's financial capacity and other developmental responsibilities.

The government has already started processing payments for verified beneficiaries, and the Abia State Citizens Contact Centre has been opened to assist those seeking information. Additionally, the state has resolved the issues that led to the recent industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU) chapter, with outstanding check-off dues paid and new salary scales incorporating academic and teaching allowances to be processed in August 2026.