Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, says his administration has repaid over N90 billion of the state’s N147.2 billion debt, since he assumed office in 2023.

Mr Otti disclosed this during his monthly media chat held at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, on Friday night.

He said that his administration would always utilise the state’s resources effectively.

The governor said that the Debt Management Office (DMO) put the state’s debt profile at N147.2 billion in the second quarter of 2023.

 According to him, the figure has dropped significantly to N48.6 billion in the second quarter of 2026.

He stated, “The earlier figure excluded some liabilities, such as pension and salary arrears, but includes other debts, subsequently reported to the DMO. This means that more than 90 billion have been paid off.”

He further clarified that the increase in the state’s foreign loan portfolio reflected draw-downs from the Abia State Integrated Infrastructure Development project and other multilateral facilities.

“The state government has, however, not undertaken any direct borrowing but could borrow, when necessary to finance regenerative projects. The borrowing to be undertaken will be responsible and will be such that we will find our ways out,” the governor said.

He further said that the State Government was currently handling about 51 road projects, with approximately 20 others under contract.

“The 12.6-kilometre Ohanze–Ntighauzo–Obete–Umuoha– Oberete–Akirika Obu Road, will be inaugurated before the end of the year.

“Construction has commenced on the Old Express and Uratta Roads in Aba, measuring approximately 3.95 km and 3.1 km respectively.

“I am confident that the contractors would complete both projects within the 24-month delivery period,” he said.

The governor said the roads had remained impassable for about 30 years, adding that their reconstruction required considerable technical expertise.

He announced plans to expand the ThriveAbia Youth Programme from 100 to 1,000 beneficiaries in its next stage.

He said, “Eighty-seven participants graduated from the pilot programme, with 50 already earning incomes through businesses and remote employment, especially with international firms.

 “The initiative, alongside TechRise and the Abia State Leadership Academy, formed part of my administration’s efforts to equip young people with relevant skills.

“We believe that one of the easiest ways to empower our young ones is to teach them skills, particularly technological skills.”

Mr Otti further said that the state government celebrated Abia State pupils who emerged world champions in an international debate competition involving 84 teams in Doha, Qatar.

“We have approved their request to represent Nigeria in Singapore in 2027, subject to their qualification from the national series.

“The third smart school project will be delivered and inaugurated in November, leaving 18 additional schools to be constructed,” he said.

(NAN)