The Abia State governor, Alex Otti, has inaugurated a fresh 19-member executive council for the state with three nominees still to be screened and cleared by the state House of Assembly.
Upon taking the oath of office and allegiance at Government House, Umuahia, the commissioners were addressed by the governor. He urged them to introduce excellence and dedication to their responsibilities.
He expressed that the development of vital infrastructure and provision of quality service is the cornerstone of his administration, emphasizing that they have significant tasks ahead, therefore, no excuses, indolence, or corruption will be tolerated.
“The primary vision of this administration is to construct a new Abia. I am fully devoted to establishing a functional society that future generations will appreciate,” he stated.
Congratulating them on their appointments, the governor reminded them that they were not chosen to represent the interests of individuals or clans, but those of the entire state.
The commissioners appointed are Ikechukwu Uwanna; attorney general and commissioner for justice, Monica Ironkwe, agriculture;
Kingsley Anosike; budget and planning; and Uche Eme Uche, education.
Others include Philemon Ogbonna, environment and urban renewal; Ngozi Okoronkwo, health; Okey Kanu, information and culture; Chaka Chukwumerije, lands and housing;
Uzor Nwachukwu, local government and chieftaincy affairs.
The remaining individuals are; Joel Ogbonna, petroleum and mineral resources; Chima Oriaku, science and technology; Nwaobilor Ananaba, sports and youth development; Chimezie Ukaegbu, trade, commerce and industry; Don Oti, works; Sunny Onwuma, transport; and Mathew Ekwuribe, digital economy/ SME
The nominees who are yet to be screened and cleared, although they have been assigned portfolios and scheduled for swearing in soon, are Mike Akpara, finance; Ngozi Felix, women affairs and poverty alleviation, and Ikechukwu Monday,; power and public utilities.
Uwanna, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, expressed gratitude to the governor for the appointments. He pledged that they would carry out their duties, which he acknowledge as immense, to the best of their capabilities.
The state solicitor general and permanent secretary of the ministry of justice, Lady Uzoamaka Uche Ikonne, administered the oaths to the commissioners.