Abia Disburses Over ₦1.2bn to Support Vulnerable Residents
By Ichie Times
The Abia State Government says it has disbursed more than ₦1.2 billion between January and August 2026 to support vulnerable residents through medical assistance, housing support, educational grants, and emergency interventions.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this after the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti, noting that the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection has continued to provide life saving assistance to indigent residents. He said Governor Otti recently approved ₦384.7 million for 19 beneficiaries covering urgent medical treatment, housing support, rehabilitation, and educational assistance.
Prince Kanu revealed that the ministry recovered ₦20.9 million in unused intervention funds through routine monitoring. According to him, one beneficiary died before the funds could be used, while another had already settled medical bills before receiving government assistance.
He also announced that over 600 indigent widows will receive business support grants during the state’s 2026 Widows’ Day celebration on August 4, while the government will mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on August 5 to promote the protection and welfare of senior citizens.
On gender based violence, the commissioner said the Nchedo Sexual Assault Referral Centre handled 11 cases between July and August 2026, with all survivors receiving medical, legal, and psychosocial support. Six suspects were arrested and four prosecuted.
Kanu further disclosed that Abia has expanded the Nigeria for Women Programme to nine local government areas after Governor Otti paid the state’s ₦450 million counterpart fund, increasing women’s affinity groups from 3,000 to 6,000.
He added that the Ministry of Works carried out maintenance projects at 46 locations across the state, including the desilting of major roads and drainage channels in Umuahia to reduce flooding during the rainy season. The state government will also participate in the burial of late Dr. Mrs. Uzomaka Kelechi Nwaubani, who died during the ANPA medical outreach, in recognition of her service to humanity.
