The Abia government says it will start the implementation of the new minimum wage in October.

The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Tuesday, while briefing newsmen on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Umuahia.

“Baring any unforseen circumstances, Abia government will commence the payment of the minimum wage to its workers from October.

“This will impact the welfare of Abia workers and mark a fulfilment of Governor Alex Otti’s promise to the people of the state,” he said.

Mr Kanu also said the minimum wage payment will cut across all categories of workers.

He disclosed that the state government would start the construction of court halls in the 17 local government areas (LGAs) of the state.

The commissioner said the project was being undertaken to strengthen the quick dispensation of justice in the state.

Mr Kanu also said the governor would on October 2, commission the pilot road under the RAMP project at Isiala Ngwa South LGA for construction.

He said the road cuts across Isiala Ngwa South and Obingwa LGAs.

The commissioner further said the governor would soon host members of Nigeria’s Paralympic team from Abia, who made the country proud at the last Paralympics.

Mr Kanu said those to be honoured included the gold medalist, Onyinyechi Mark, and the silver medalist, Esther Nwogu.

He announced that the governor’s wife, Priscilla Otti, would on Wednesday launch the enrollment of children, women and elderly people into the Abia State Health Insurance Scheme.

He said the event would take place at Ugwunagbo LGA, alongside a medical outreach for the people of the area.

(NAN)