The Ebonyi State Executive Council (EXCO) on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, took far-reaching decisions to strengthen civil service welfare, education, healthcare, and digital access, while endorsing a billion-dollar development grant.
Briefing journalists on Thursday in his office at Abakaliki, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. Ikeuwa Collins Omebeh, said the council approved an additional ₦20,000 increment on the state minimum wage for all categories of workers, reaffirming Governor Francis Nwifuru’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare.
He added that EXCO also gave immediate approval for the implementation of the eight-year tenure policy for Directors and Permanent Secretaries, leading to the retirement of those who have served eight years on the same cadre.
In what could be a game-changer for the state’s economy, Omebeh disclosed that EXCO endorsed Ebonyi’s expression of interest in the Albion-Empire and Affiliates $1 billion development grant, expected to fund key infrastructure and social projects.
On education, he announced the installation of 70 passenger lifts at the newly established Aeronautic University, Onueke, and the ICT University, Oferekpe, while fixing the school fees at N669,000 for the 2025/2026 academic session.
He further revealed that a scholarship scheme for 140 indigent students across the 13 LGAs and host communities was approved, alongside the remodelling of the state library to international standard.
In the health sector, the commissioner stated that the council gave approval for the establishment of the Ebonyi State Virology Research and Innovation Centre, making Ebonyi the only state in the South East with such a facility apart from Edo State.
The centre, he explained, will focus on viral disease research, diagnosis, and training in line with global scientific standards.
He also said the council approved the installation of free wireless internet services at strategic locations across the state to aid students and the public, as well as measures to support the creative industry, including film grants and equipment for 20 indigenous producers.
On social development, Omebeh noted that EXCO resolved to embark on a radio enlightenment campaign to promote male inclusivity in gender-based violence awareness, stressing that men must also be recognized as victims in some cases.
Earlier, three new Senior Assistants to the Governor on Housing, Security, and Commerce/Industry were sworn in and charged to deliver on their mandates.
