In a renewed effort to reposition the education sector and uphold the principles of good governance, the Abia State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, equity, and quality service delivery in public education.

Speaking at the official financial bid opening ceremony for the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Intervention Projects for the years 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, the Executive Chairman of the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Ezihe Onuoha, emphasized that the Board remains guided by the values of merit and due process.

“We believe firmly in equity, transparency, accountability, integrity, and merit,” Onuoha declared.

“Equity is our watchword. Contracts are awarded strictly based on the established criteria. We expect only the best because we owe our children and our communities nothing less.”

The financial bid opening, which took place at the E-Library complex in Umuahia, marked a significant milestone in the execution of projects jointly funded by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Abia State Government.

The projects include the construction and renovation of classroom blocks, school halls, toilet facilities, perimeter fencing, the provision of boreholes, furniture for students and teachers, and instructional materials across public basic schools in the state.

Lady Onuoha congratulated contractors who had successfully passed the rigorous technical evaluation stage, emphasizing that the process adhered strictly to the Public Procurement Act of 2007 and was widely publicized in two national and two local newspapers.

“This administration is committed to restoring the dignity of public education in Abia State,” she stated. “Governor Alex Otti’s leadership model is rooted in transparency, credibility, trust, and purposeful governance. His vision for a New Abia is not just policy; it is action—and we at ASUBEB are proud to be part of it.”

She also commended Governor Otti for the prompt provision of the state’s counterpart funding, which enabled Abia to access the UBEC matching grants necessary for implementing the intervention projects.

“We are restoring confidence in public schools,” she said. “We are committed to ensuring that our children benefit directly from these investments, and every Naira spent will be visible in improved learning environments.”

Lady Onuoha issued a stern charge to contractors, warning that the government would not condone any form of substandard execution. “Deliver only quality,” she said firmly.

“This government will not tolerate substandard work. We owe it to our children to give them the best learning environments possible.”

She also took a moment to appreciate the efforts of Board members, Directors, and the Procurement Unit for their diligence in ensuring a smooth and credible bidding process.

Also speaking at the event, the Head of the Procurement Unit, Mr. Ihuoma Ohajuru, provided a comprehensive overview of the procurement procedures and reaffirmed the administration’s compliance with all statutory procurement guidelines.

“The financial bidding process was strictly guided by the Procurement Act of 2007 and UBEC regulations,” Ohajuru explained. “Governor Otti’s transformational agenda has enabled us to work in an atmosphere of transparency and professionalism. The process you witnessed today is a testament to our shared values.”

On behalf of the successful contractors, Rev. Idika Echeme, Managing Director of Enesco Nigeria Limited and Jebok International Limited, expressed appreciation to the state government for ushering in a new era of openness.

“This is the first time in Abia State’s history that we are witnessing such openness in contract bidding,” Rev. Echeme stated. “We will not fail the trust reposed in us. We commend Governor Otti and Lady Onuoha for their fairness, leadership, and professionalism.”