……………..Showcases Fiscal Discipline and Development Strides.
FIC Report (Abia State) – In a bold move to bolster development and accelerate infrastructural transformation in Abia State, Governor Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has called for an increased revenue allocation from the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to the state.
Governor Otti made the passionate appeal while receiving in audience the Federal Commissioner representing Abia State at RMAFC, Mrs. Nkechi Oti, who paid a courtesy visit to formally submit her report after a familiarisation tour and stakeholders’ engagements across the state.
“Anything you can do to help us increase our Federal allocation will be very much appreciated by your State and by the government,” the Governor urged. “We have a lot of projects on our hands, and more funds would enable us execute them effectively.”
He emphasized that the request was not based on frivolity, but on the foundation of sound fiscal management already recognized nationally. Citing the latest report from the Debt Management Office (DMO), Governor Otti proudly noted that Abia is among the leading states in debt reduction, a feat he attributed to strict financial discipline and responsible governance.
“We only spend when it is absolutely necessary and for the right reasons,” he affirmed. “That’s why we’ve gained national recognition for prudent debt management.”
Addressing findings in the report submitted by the Commissioner, Governor Otti assured of swift and pragmatic action — particularly in response to concerns raised over overstaffing at ASOPADEC. He revealed plans to engage with the agency, prioritizing strategic redeployment over outright job losses.
“We do not want to throw people into the job market,” he stated. “What I had instructed was some form of restructuring. If there is excess capacity, they could be sent somewhere else.”
He also directed the Head of Service to convene an urgent meeting the next day to begin addressing the issue, further demonstrating his administration’s commitment to reform, compassion, and efficiency.
Governor Otti congratulated Mrs. Oti on her appointment and reaffirmed Abia’s full support and collaboration with RMAFC, expressing hope that her advocacy would help secure a more equitable share of national revenue for the state.
Earlier, Mrs. Nkechi Oti expressed admiration for the developmental strides achieved under Governor Otti’s administration. She highlighted improvements in road infrastructure, digital revenue systems, revitalized healthcare facilities, modernized schools, and the employment of over 5,000 teachers.
However, she also pointed out areas requiring urgent attention, including the need for deeper community engagement in oil-producing regions and human resource rationalization in certain agencies.
The high-level meeting had in attendance key state officials, including the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Uwaoma Ukandu; the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Goodluck Ubochi; and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Communication, Mr. Dodo Okafor.
As the Otti-led administration continues to push for financial fairness and responsible governance, Abians watch with renewed optimism — hopeful that increased federal support will further propel the state toward a new era of inclusive and sustainable development.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC,FIC Umuahia ,Abia State .
6th July, 2025.
