The Abia State Government has shortlisted 9,371 applicants for its ongoing teachers’ recruitment exercise. The shortlisted candidates will undergo a Computer-Based Test (CBT) on a date to be announced soon.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting, presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
According to him, the application portal was closed on February 12, after receiving a total of 29,797 applications.
“The portal for the recruitment of teachers was shut down on February 12, 2025, and at the last count, about 29,797 applications were received. Out of this number, 9,371 applications were shortlisted, and these candidates will undergo a CBT as earlier announced,” Kanu stated.
He further explained that successful candidates from the CBT will be invited for an oral interview, after which those who meet the required standards will be offered employment.
“The process of recruiting these teachers has been designed to be transparent and merit-based,” he assured.
Governor Otti to Unveil ABIAFIRST Educational Initiative
The Commissioner also announced that Governor Alex Otti will unveil a major educational initiative, ABIAFIRST, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Themed “Re-imagining Education in Abia, Unleashing the Potential of Every Abia Youth,” the programme aims to transform the state’s education sector and provide world-class learning opportunities for every child in Abia.
Igbo Language Now Compulsory in Abia Schools
In a bid to preserve the cultural heritage of the state, Prince Kanu revealed that the government has made the Igbo language a compulsory subject from primary school up to SS2.
“The Igbo language, which is central to our identity, has been made compulsory in our schools up to SS2 level. This ensures that our children are well-grounded in their mother tongue,” he said.
He added that the move aligns with the government’s broader cultural and social revitalization agenda.
History Studies Reintroduced in Schools
Prince Kanu also disclosed that History has been reintroduced into the curriculum of Abia schools with immediate effect, emphasizing its importance in shaping the younger generation.
“Any society that is serious about progress must be deliberate about preserving its history. Abia State has a rich historical background, and we want to ensure that our children and future generations understand and appreciate it,” he stated.
Increase in Teachers’ Recruitment Slots
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, highlighted a key development in the recruitment process. He revealed that Governor Otti has approved an increase in the number of teachers to be recruited from 2,500 to 5,000 due to the growing student population following the government’s free and compulsory education policy.
“Initially, the State Executive Council approved the recruitment of 2,500 teachers. However, after reviewing the increased influx of students into our schools, we requested the Governor’s approval for a higher number. By the end of this process, about 5,000 teachers will be employed,” Elder Ubochi explained.
He also noted that a new curriculum for History education is set to be introduced in the next academic year, ensuring that students receive comprehensive lessons on the rich history of the Igbo people.
The Abia State Government’s latest initiatives, including the merit-based teacher recruitment process, the ABIAFIRST educational programme, and the reinforcement of Igbo language and History studies, reflect its commitment to strengthening the state’s educational system. Governor Otti’s administration continues to prioritize policies that will enhance learning and preserve cultural heritage for future generations.
