Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has inaugurated professionals as Chairmen, Secretaries, and members of six strategic government boards, marking a major step in his administration’s drive to reform and develop critical sectors in the state.
The newly inaugurated boards include:
- Umuahia Capital Development Authority
- Greater Aba Development Authority
- Abia State Medicine and Commodities Management
- Abia State SME Microfinance Bank Ltd
- Abia State Homeland Security
- Abia State Advisory Council on Electricity
Speaking during the inauguration at Government House, Umuahia, on Thursday, Governor Otti said the appointments were deliberately made to include seasoned professionals and technocrats who would help actualize the administration’s development agenda.
Among those appointed are a retired army general to lead Homeland Security, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to co-chair the Electricity Advisory Council, and a renowned pharmacist to oversee Medicine and Commodities Management.
Otti emphasized that the appointments were based on merit and competence rather than ethnicity or state of origin.
“Some of the people we inaugurated are not from Abia. Some are not even from the South East. That is what our administration stands for. We don’t discriminate—we seek value wherever we find it,” the governor said.
He added, “We have assembled these eggheads to help us execute this critical transaction so our people can have the tools, resources, and infrastructure to thrive.”
The governor specifically tasked the leadership of the Greater Aba and Umuahia Capital Development Authorities, as well as the SME Microfinance Bank, to deliver measurable results.
On the Advisory Council on Electricity, Otti reiterated that power is central to Abia’s industrialization efforts. He disclosed that a transaction is nearing conclusion with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to take over the Umuahia ring-fenced area and extend reliable electricity supply to the eight remaining local government areas not currently served by Geometric Power.
“With the electricity law now domesticated, Abia has the authority to generate, transmit, and regulate its own power. We no longer have excuses,” he said.
The governor expressed confidence that the appointees would bring their vast experience to bear and deliver effectively in their various roles.
Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated board members, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities and Co-Chair of the Electricity Advisory Council, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, thanked the governor for the opportunity and assured him of their commitment to serve with excellence.
The inauguration was witnessed by top government functionaries and dignitaries from across the state.
Leave a comment