Education
Fuel price hike: Abia govt postpones school resumption date

The Abia State Government has announced a major change in the academic calendar for the 2024/2025 session, pushing the resumption date for all public and private schools to Wednesday, September 23, from the initially scheduled Monday, September 16.
Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, revealed this adjustment during a press briefing following the Executive Council meeting in Umuahia. The rescheduling is attributed to coincide with an important Muslim holiday.
In addition, the state is gearing up for the second batch of teacher training, which will run from September 11 to September 20. This training will occur simultaneously at three centers—Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia—with a target of 1,800 teachers set to participate. This initiative is part of the broader educational reform agenda.
Kanu also announced a 90-day grace period for Aba property owners to register their land at previous rates, showcasing the governor’s commitment to easing regulatory burdens. This move is seen as a gesture of goodwill, likened to a “Christmas gift” for affected landowners.
Further developments include Abia State’s selection to represent Nigeria at an international medical symposium in Ghana, under the “HOPE” initiative, a World Bank and Federal Government collaboration aimed at human capital development.
In a significant push towards infrastructure improvement, the “Light Up Abia Initiative” has already installed 4,346 solar lights across 86 locations, enhancing both security and comfort for residents.
The Abia Electricity Bill has passed its second reading at the State House of Assembly. If enacted, it will establish the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority and the Abia State Rural Electrification Agency, promising to transform the state’s power sector.
Chief Press Secretary Ukoha Njoku Ukoha emphasized that Gov. Alex Otti’s administration is committed to redefining the state’s trajectory and accelerating development.