Women Take 70% Slot As Otti Swears In 10 Permanent Secretaries

As Governor Tasks Appointees On Competence, Integrity

UMUAHIA — Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has sworn in 10 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries into the State civil service, charging them to make competence, integrity and commitment their watchword.

Otti, performing ceremony at Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, said his administration since 2023 has prioritised merit, competence and transparency in appointments.

He stressed that political considerations, state of origin and local government have no place in determining appointments in under his watch.

He said out of many applicants, only candidates who demonstrated required competence and qualifications progressed through stages involving computer-based tests and oral interviews.

“Our administration is committed to ensuring that only qualified individuals are appointed to positions of responsibility. We will continue to uphold merit as a fundamental principle of public service,” Governor said.

He urged the new Permanent Secretaries to see their appointments as opportunities to serve people and contribute to the development of the state, noting that their conduct and performance would determine how well they distinguish themselves.

The Governor highlighted strong representation of women among the appointees, noting that seven out of the 10 are women, representing 70 percent, attributing development to merit-based selection.

“Women have demonstrated their competence and ability to excel when given equal opportunities,” Otti said.

Speaking on behalf of new Permanent Secretaries, Mrs. Uwaoma Ajike thanked Governor for finding them fit to be part of transformation agenda and pledged to uphold principles of excellence, accountability, transparency and selfless service.

The Governor also inaugurated three other appointees including Mr. Godwin Adindu as GM, Abia State Signage and Advertisement Agency, Ms. Sandra Ivonye-Ntofon as MD/CEO, Abia Innovation and Industrial Park, and Mr. Emenike Onyembi as Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters, urging them to distinguish themselves through dedication and professionalism.