Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, has once again demonstrated his commitment to workers’ welfare by approving the release of all accumulated promotions for staff of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba (formerly Abia State Polytechnic). This marks the end of a 10-year embargo on staff promotions, a policy that had stifled career growth and morale within the institution.
In a bold move to enhance fairness and motivation, Governor Otti also abolished the controversial Notional Promotion policy, which had long denied staff the financial benefits associated with their promotions.
The landmark announcement was made by the Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic’s Rector, Dr. Christopher K. Okoro, sparking widespread celebration among the institution’s staff. Jubilant lecturers, administrative personnel, and support staff expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the governor for not only lifting the decade-long stagnation but also for fulfilling his previous promise of clearing their 33-month salary arrears owed by the past administration.
This latest intervention aligns with Governor Otti’s broader agenda to rebuild and reposition the state’s educational sector. Upon assuming office, he had vowed to restore financial stability, improve learning facilities, and ensure that all civil servants receive their due benefits without delays.
Many Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic staff members, who had endured years of frustration, unpaid salaries, and lack of career growth, described the governor’s action as historic and revolutionary.
“Governor Otti has given us back our dignity. We can now work with renewed passion, knowing that our labor will be rewarded,” said a senior lecturer who had been stuck in the same position for a decade.
Another member of staff emphasized that this move reaffirms Otti’s leadership as one that prioritizes workers’ welfare, unlike past administrations that left institutions to decay.
Governor Otti’s reforms in Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic go beyond just salary payments and promotions. His administration has also begun a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade to restore the polytechnic’s lost glory.
The school management confirmed that new facilities, improved funding for research, and strategic partnerships are underway to ensure the polytechnic competes favorably with top institutions in Nigeria.
The abolition of Notional Promotions is particularly significant, as it ensures that staff members who earn promotions will now enjoy full financial benefits immediately, rather than just a symbolic title change.
Since assuming office, Governor Alex Otti has remained unwavering in his commitment to workers’ rights, making him widely regarded as one of the most labor-friendly governors in Abia’s history.
The Governor has assured all workers in the state that his administration will continue to prioritize equity, fairness, and prompt remuneration.
With this latest intervention, staff of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic can finally look forward to a future where hard work is recognized and rewarded.
As the school community celebrates this breakthrough, one thing is certain—Governor Otti is truly delivering on his promise to restore Abia to greatness.
