The Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has undertaken a significant Abia State cabinet reshuffle that involved reassigning several key officials and creating new ministries to streamline the administration. On Thursday, the governor announced the reorganization, which followed the swearing-in of new commissioners on Wednesday. This reshuffle reflects his commitment to enhancing governance and addressing the evolving needs of the state.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Otti outlined his plans to carry out a minor reshuffle within his cabinet while also introducing a few new ministries. These changes are intended to optimize the government’s efficiency and ensure that each ministry is better equipped to handle its responsibilities. As a result, some ministries were newly created, while others were restructured by carving out specific functions from existing ones.
One of the major highlights of the Abia State cabinet reshuffle is the reassignment of Mike Akpara, who previously served as the Commissioner of Finance. He has now been appointed to head the Ministry of Industry and SMEs. This move signals the governor’s intention to strengthen the state’s industrial sector and support small and medium-sized enterprises, which are vital to the state’s economy. Meanwhile, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, who was formerly the Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, has been moved to the Ministry of Transport, where his expertise will be used to improve the state’s transportation infrastructure.
Several other key figures were also affected by the Abia State cabinet reshuffle. Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna remains the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, a position he has held with distinction. Uzo Nwachukwu has been appointed as the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, while Mr. Uwaoma Ukandu takes over as the new Commissioner for Finance. Mr. Kingsley Anosike and Mr. Okey Kanu have been named the Commissioner for Budget and Planning and the Commissioner for Information, respectively.
The newly composed cabinet also includes a number of other appointments aimed at enhancing various sectors in the state. Mr. Goodluck Ubochi has been named the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Uche Uche as the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, and Prof. Enoch Uche as the Commissioner for Health. Other notable appointments include Dr. Mrs. Maureen Aghukwa as the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Blessing Felix as the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, and Mr. Philemon A. Ogbonna as the Commissioner for Environment.
Furthermore, the reshuffle brought new leaders to critical areas such as petroleum, sports, and innovation. Prof. Joel F. Ogbonna now heads the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, while Mr. Kingsley Nwokocha is the new Commissioner for Trade and Commerce. Mr. Nwaobilor Ananaba has been appointed as the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, and Mr. David Kalu takes charge of the Ministry of Science, Technology & Innovation.
Other appointments following the Abia State cabinet reshuffle include Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije as the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Engr. Don Otumchere Oti as the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday as the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, and Comrade Sunny A. Onwuma as the Commissioner for Labour and Productivity.
This extensive Abia State cabinet reshuffle underscores Governor Otti’s dedication to ensuring that the state’s executive council is composed of individuals who are well-suited to drive the administration’s agenda and deliver on the promises made to the people of Abia State.