The Executive Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Mrs. Chineye Anosike, has appealed to the Abia State government to assist in recovering outstanding loan payments from civil servants in the state, with some debts dating back to 2019.

The appeal was made during a meeting with the Abia State Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, in Umuahia, where Anosike expressed concern that deductions made by various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies have not been remitted to the bank.

"Some deductions made by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies have not been remitted to enable the updating of our records and for sustainability," Anosike lamented.

During the meeting, Anosike commended Governor Alex Otti's administration for its achievements since taking office. She also announced that keys to the remaining 18 houses at the Ubani Housing Estate have been handed over to beneficiaries, completing the 100-house project built by the Federal Mortgage Bank in the state.

Mr. Chris Okoro, a former labour union leader present at the meeting, raised concerns about civil servants whose contributions were deducted years ago for housing projects but who still do not own homes. He urged both the Head of Service and the Federal Mortgage Bank to address this situation.

"Despite the deductions, many of such persons are still living in rented apartments without owning their own houses," Okoro stated.

In response, Head of Service Ojeikere affirmed that the Abia State government prioritizes the welfare of civil servants, describing them as "the engine room of government and other sectors." He noted that the Federal Mortgage Bank's housing projects complement the state government's efforts to improve civil servants' living conditions.

Ojeikere appealed to the Federal Mortgage Bank to revive suspended housing projects and make them more affordable for civil servants. He also called for a review of eligibility conditions to make it easier for civil servants to access the bank's facilities.