The Abia State Government has reassured communities across the state that their lands will not be taken without proper compensation, urging full cooperation on land acquisition for developmental projects.

The State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, gave the assurance on Monday during a press briefing on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.

Kanu emphasized that the current administration remains committed to fairness and transparency in handling land matters, noting that the government continues to pay handsome compensation despite the 1978 Land Use Act, which vests ownership of large parcels of land in the government.

“Communities should cooperate with the government. Under Governor Alex Otti’s leadership, Abians will never be shortchanged in terms of lands acquired for projects,” Kanu stated.

He further assured that lands acquired for specific purposes would not be diverted to other uses, reinforcing the administration’s promise of accountability in governance.

In addition, the Commissioner announced that the state government has approved the implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) for local government health workers as part of ongoing civil service reforms aimed at improving workers’ welfare.

“This commendable move makes Abia State one of the few in the country that pays the Federal Government’s CONHESS,” Kanu said.

He also revealed that the recruitment portal for health workers has been reopened, with vacancies available for ophthalmologists, medical officers, dental officers, and both part-time and full-time consultants.

The commissioner reiterated that Governor Otti’s administration remains focused on transparency, fairness, and human development, ensuring that government projects benefit all Abians.