Umuahia: Gov. Alex Otti of Abia has announced plans to recruit 4,000 additional teachers to enhance the educational workforce in the state's primary and secondary schools. This move aims to increase the total number of new teachers to 9,394.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the governor made this announcement during his media chat, 'Gov. Alex Otti Speaks to Abians,' held at the Government House in Umuahia. He outlined that the first batch of 5,394 teachers, who have already been recruited, are currently undergoing orientation in Aba and Umuahia and will soon be deployed.

The governor emphasized that the recruitment of the next set of teachers will commence immediately after the ongoing orientation. "We expect that the portal will be opened and applications will be received," he stated. This initiative is designed to prepare schools for the upcoming academic session, especially in light of the increased enrollment following the introduction of free and compulsory education.

The News Agency of Nigeria further reports that in January, the state government implemented a policy of free and compulsory education for children from primary one to junior secondary school. This policy aims to ensure educational access for every child in Abia, irrespective of their origin.

Gov. Otti stressed the importance of preparing and ensuring quality education by equipping schools with qualified teachers. He also reaffirmed his administration's commitment to renovating schools, including tertiary institutions, and converting 20 schools into smart schools, which are already under development.

In addition to educational reforms, the governor discussed advancements in the health sector, highlighting the ongoing renovation of 200 primary healthcare centers across the state's 17 Local Government Areas. Many of these centers are near completion and equipped with modern facilities.

Governor Otti also touched on achievements in other sectors such as security, road infrastructure, and sanitation. He called on the residents to support the administration's efforts in building a New Abia.