Governor Alex Otti Declares End of ‘9 to 5’ Era in Abia: Workers Embrace 24-Hour Economy in Bold New Transformation
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In a rousing address that signaled a bold new chapter for Abia State, Governor Alex C. Otti, OFR, announced a paradigm shift in the work culture of the state, declaring the gradual end of the traditional “9 am to 5 pm” workday as workers voluntarily embrace a 24-hour economy under his transformative administration.
Speaking at the 2025 International Workers’ Day celebration at the Umuahia Township Stadium, Governor Otti praised Abia’s workforce for their dedication, resilience, and growing commitment to a culture of productivity that prioritizes results over rigid schedules.
“I am glad that the 9 am to 5 pm orientation is gradually fading away from our work environment,” the governor declared to thunderous applause. “The New Abia work ethic does not permit anyone leaving the office when there are still files to be attended to or tasks to be executed. You do not go home because it is 5 pm; you go home because you have effectively completed the tasks you outlined at the beginning of the day.”
Otti lauded civil servants who now arrive at their duty posts earlier, voluntarily work beyond official hours, and even sacrifice weekends to meet deliverables. He noted that across the state, private businesses were opening earlier and adopting a similar ethic of extended productivity.
The governor attributed this dramatic shift to a deliberate policy of restoring dignity and motivation to the workforce. “The most significant reasons most workers lost their motivation before now were related to the poor state of the physical environment, disregard for workers’ welfare, and a general culture of wealth without work promoted by former public office holders,” Otti stated.
Highlighting his administration’s focus on improving working conditions and prioritizing workers’ entitlements, Otti argued that the renewed enthusiasm was a natural response to fair treatment and better leadership. “Only a dishonest person would imagine that an employee whose entitlements have not been paid for several months would put in their best at work,” he said.
The governor also used the occasion to situate the celebration within the broader global history of labor, paying homage to workers past and present whose sacrifices have powered human civilization. “Today’s celebration honours the present but also pays homage to those whose resilience and foresight brought us here,” he affirmed.
Observers say Otti’s address marks a significant ideological shift, positioning Abia as a potential model for sustainable economic transformation driven by human capital and work ethic reform.
As workers departed the stadium, many expressed optimism and renewed hope. “It feels good to finally have a governor who respects and motivates us,” said Nkechi Okafor, a civil servant. “We are working harder now because we see results and feel valued.”
With Governor Otti’s ambitious vision for a 24-hour economy taking shape, Abia State appears poised for a new era of growth, driven by a workforce reenergized under what many are calling the “New Abia” ethos.
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