Governor Otti Designates Dr. Meribole as Acting Secretary to the State Government

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has ratified the appointment of Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Meribole as the Acting Secretary to the State Government (SSG), following the governor’s approval of a leave of absence for the substantive SSG, Professor Kenneth Kalu (FCA), who is required to attend to pressing personal obligations.

Dr. Meribole, who presently serves as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Projects, is scheduled to formally assume his new responsibilities on January 1, 2026.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the administration disclosed that a structured handover process will commence on Monday, December 15, 2025. During this transitional phase, Professor Kalu and Dr. Meribole will collaborate closely to ensure a seamless, well-coordinated, and uninterrupted continuity of governmental processes.

A distinguished medical practitioner and accomplished public administrator, Dr. Meribole boasts decades of top-level experience. Prior to joining the Otti administration, he retired as Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, where he played significant roles in national aviation reforms, project execution, and strategic policy development.

His elevation to Acting SSG is widely interpreted as a reaffirmation of his competence, administrative discipline, and alignment with Governor Otti’s transformative vision for Abia State.

While announcing the transition, Governor Otti expressed deep gratitude to Professor Kalu for his exemplary service, unwavering loyalty, and steadfast commitment to the advancement and modernization of the state.

The statement was released on December 12, 2025.