Otti Announces Meribole SSG as Kalu Embarks on Leave of Absence

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has announced the appointment of Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Meribole as the Acting Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

The appointment followed the governor’s approval granted Prof. Kenneth Kalu to proceed on a leave of absence 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.

According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, a structured handover process will commence on Monday, December 15, 2025, during which Professor Kalu and Dr. Meribole will collaborate closely to ensure a seamless, well-coordinated, and uninterrupted continuity of governmental processes.

Emmanuel Meribole, a medical doctor, is a seasoned multi talented professional who retired as the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development before joining Otti’s administration as Special Adviser.

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.

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