In a strategic move aimed at reinvigorating governance and enhancing service delivery, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced a cabinet reshuffle involving the appointment of two new commissioners and one special adviser, alongside a reorganisation of key ministries.
During a swearing-in ceremony held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Umuahia on Tuesday, Governor Otti formally inaugurated Salome Obiukwu as Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Chiemela Uzoije as Commissioner for Housing, and Christian Enweremadu as Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture.
As part of the cabinet adjustments, the governor revealed that the erstwhile Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Kingsley Nwokocha, will now head the Ministry of Labour and Productivity.
Additionally, in a move geared toward operational efficiency, the Ministry of Lands and Housing has been split into two distinct portfolios. Consequently, Chaka Chukwumerije has been appointed Commissioner for Lands.
Governor Otti said the changes reflect his administration’s commitment to “periodically inject fresh ideas” into the governance structure to broaden performance scope and improve impact across sectors.
“You have been found to possess the important leadership qualities that we seek in our team,” the governor stated. “There is practically no time for a honeymoon. We expect that you will hit the ground running and engage every available channel to succeed.”
While congratulating the appointees for successfully passing through a rigorous nomination and screening process, Otti reminded them of his zero-tolerance stance on corruption. He warned that any form of compromise or misconduct in public office would attract immediate and decisive sanctions.
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“This administration has zero tolerance for corruption and practices that take away from the public trust,” he reiterated. “This is a call to serve, not an invitation to a banquet.”
The governor emphasized the importance of teamwork, encouraging the new appointees to collaborate closely with existing members of the executive council for optimal service delivery. He noted that the administration has crossed the halfway mark of its first term and urged all officials to intensify efforts to achieve its development goals.
Highlighting the achievements of the past 28 months, Governor Otti cited notable progress in road infrastructure, security, education, and healthcare, reaffirming his government’s resolve to improve the quality of life for Abians.
In a vote of thanks on behalf of the newly sworn-in officials, Commissioner Salome Obiukwu expressed deep appreciation to the governor for the opportunity to serve. She pledged their collective commitment to discharge their responsibilities with diligence, integrity, and a shared vision for a prosperous Abia State.