Universal Times

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has pledged to claim the accumulated and unclaimed Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) approvals earmarked for state institutions. This commitment was made when the governor received a delegation from the House of Representatives Committee on TETFUND and Other Services, led by Hon. Princess Miriam Odinakachi Onuoha.

Governor Otti emphasized the enormous work required to bring the education sector to an acceptable standard in the state. He decried the level of dilapidation in public schools and the ruins its structures were subjected to. The governor assured that he would take immediate action to salvage the situation, as merely bemoaning the problem does not solve it.

The governor's commitment to education is evident in the state's dedication of 20% of its budget allocation to education. Additionally, the state has declared free and compulsory education from primary to junior secondary school.

*Key Highlights of Governor Otti's Commitment*

- _Claiming accumulated and unclaimed TETFUND approvals_ for state institutions

- _Prioritizing education_ with 20% of the state's budget allocation

- _Declaring free and compulsory education_ from primary to junior secondary school

- _Taking immediate action_ to address the dilapidation of public schools

The House of Representatives Committee on TETFUND and Other Services has created a separate Standing Committee on TETFUND to ensure better accountability and judicious utilization of the funds released. The committee has relaxed some of the stringent conditions causing delays, providing an opportunity to speak with beneficiaries and stakeholders to address challenges and clear backlogs. ¹