Gov. Alex Otti Gifts 28 Brand-New Cars to Abia Permanent Secretaries, Launches Next Phase of Civil Service Transformation

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has handed over 28 brand-new Geely Emgrand vehicles to Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service as part of his administration’s efforts to enhance efficiency and restore the dignity of the service.

Presenting the vehicles on Tuesday at the newly commissioned Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia, Governor Otti said the initiative was aimed at easing mobility challenges for senior civil servants and ensuring they have the tools necessary for effective performance.

“Having appointed you as Permanent Secretaries, it is only proper to make your work easier by providing you with these cars,” the Governor said. “Gone are the days when senior officers had to come to work in tricycles. You won’t pay a kobo for these cars; all documents are ready.”

Governor Otti emphasized that the appointment of the Permanent Secretaries was based strictly on merit, transparency, and competence, stressing that no one was chosen through personal connections.

“All of you earned your positions through merit. Even those I knew personally were not selected outside the transparent process,” he stated.

He commended the Permanent Secretaries for their dedication and cooperation, noting that they have been key to the successful implementation of his administration’s policies and programmes.

The Governor expressed optimism that the gesture would further motivate the officials and strengthen the drive toward a more efficient, digitally driven civil service in the state.

“As we move into the next phase of civil service transformation, I am counting on all of you to drive this digitalization process. We’ve already approved the procurement of internet-ready devices to enhance productivity as we work to make the entire state digitally connected,” he added.

In a vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands, TPL Ukpabi Ukeje, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, lauded the Governor for his generosity and commitment to improving the work environment. He prayed for God’s continued guidance and protection for the Governor.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Sir Chris Onwuegbu, described the gesture as a morale booster that would inspire greater commitment and productivity.

The event was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, the Head of Service, the Chief of Staff, Commissioners, and other top government officials.