Abia State begins gratuity payments, resolves Abia State University strike issues
The Abia State Government has announced the commencement of gratuity payments to eligible beneficiaries and the resolution of issues that led to a strike at Abia State University, Uturu. According to Okey Kanu, the State Commissioner for Information, a committee established to manage the gratuity payment process identified a total outstanding liability of N61.8 billion for both state and local government retirees. This amount includes N7.2 billion for the period 2001-2010, N43.6 billion for 2011-May 29, 2023, and N10.9 billion from May 30, 2023, to the present. The committee recommended that the total annual financial impact from 2026 to 2031 be included in the state's medium-term expenditure framework and subsequent yearly budgets to ensure consistent implementation and prevent further accumulation of arrears. Payments will be made directly to verified beneficiaries through a dedicated platform linked to the state's treasury single account. Additionally, an intervention by a committee led by the State SSG has resolved the strike issues at Abia State University. Outstanding check-off dues have been paid, and a new salary scale, consolidated academic teaching allowance ASCATA, and other related payments will be disbursed with the August 2026 salary for affected workers. The new salary scale for other university staff has also been processed for payment this August. The government reiterated its commitment to engaging with unions and prioritizing workers' welfare, noting that a
