Gov Otti Reshuffles Cabinet, Swears In Two Commissioners, One Special Adviser

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reshuffled the state executive council, announcing the appointment of two new Commissioners and one Special Adviser to strengthen his administration’s delivery of governance.

The newly sworn-in officials are Salome Obiukwu, Commissioner for Trade and Commerce; Chiemela Uzoije, Commissioner for Housing; and Christian Enweremadu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Umuahia, on Tuesday, Otti also announced that the former Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Kingsley Nwokocha, will now head the Ministry of Labour and Productivity.

In a move aimed at improving efficiency, the governor revealed that the Ministry of Lands and Housing has been split into two separate portfolios, with Chaka Chukwumerije appointed as Commissioner for Lands.

Governor Otti described the appointments as part of his strategy to inject fresh ideas into governance and broaden the scope of his administration’s performance.

He congratulated the appointees for scaling through a rigorous nomination and screening process but warned them against complacency.

“There is practically no time for a honeymoon,” he cautioned. “You are expected to hit the ground running. Our administration has zero tolerance for corruption, and we shall not hesitate to sanction any official found wanting.”

Highlighting his administration’s achievements over the last 28 months in road infrastructure, security, education, and healthcare, Otti urged the new appointees to embrace teamwork and deliver measurable improvements in the lives of Abians.

Responding on behalf of the new officials, Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Salome Obiukwu, expressed gratitude to the governor for the opportunity to serve, assuring that they would discharge their duties “to the glory of God and the good of Abia State.”