The Abia State government has introduced a free and compulsory education policy for all children in the state, irrespective of their state of origin, set to begin in January 2025.

The policy covers students from Primary One to Junior Secondary School Three in all public schools across the state.

Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, disclosed the new initiative during a press briefing following the State Executive Council meeting. He emphasized that parents and guardians who fail to comply with the policy would face prosecution, as stipulated by the Abia Child’s Rights Law of 2006. “It is now an offence for parents not to send their children or wards to school, as the government has made education free and compulsory,” Kanu stated.

This educational reform is part of the Governor Alex Otti-led administration’s commitment to delivering quality and affordable education to Abians.

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Additionally, the state government reaffirmed its decision to relocate the Law Faculty of Abia State University from its Umuahia campus back to the Uturu main campus, citing public interest as the primary reason for the change.

The Commissioner also announced that contracts have been awarded for the rehabilitation of nine more roads across the state and promised further details on these projects. Furthermore, the government plans to address all concerns related to the implementation of the new minimum wage policy.

Kanu also addressed issues regarding the Osisioma flyover, a signature project of the previous administration under Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu. He pointed out that the flyover, which has shown signs of failure within two years of construction, would be repaired immediately as directed by Governor Otti. Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, assured that while the widening of the flyover’s opening was concerning, it does not pose any immediate safety threat.

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