Kehinde Fajobi
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prudent governance by delivering significant achievements across various sectors in just 18 months.
A key milestone is the reopening of the Nnamdi Azikiwe State Secretariat, which underwent retrofitting, remodelling, and external works.
Speaking at the ceremony in Umuahia, Governor Otti revealed that the project, originally valued at ₦2 billion, was completed for ₦900 million, saving the state ₦1.1 billion.
He credited the cost-saving success to the direct labour initiative led by the Ministry of Lands and Housing.
“This reopening ceremony is in furtherance of our commitment to building a state that serves the needs of the general public in the most efficient way,” Otti said.
He commended Honourable Commissioner Chaka Ikenna Chukwumerije and his team for executing the project with state civil service engineers, architects, and surveyors.
The Governor noted that using local civil servants for the project not only reduced costs but also improved their technical expertise and boosted the local economy.
“Working directly with our people has led to a drastic reduction in costs, improved the technical capacities of the teams, and opened new vistas of opportunities for local businesses,” he added.
Otti announced that the refurbished secretariat will host close to 1,000 personnel across several ministries, departments, and agencies.
He also highlighted additional efforts to restore water, electricity, and other utilities in public offices across the state capital.
Beyond infrastructure, the Governor emphasised his administration’s focus on creating a motivated and efficient civil service.
He highlighted reforms in appointing permanent secretaries based on competence and experience and assured workers of regular salaries and allowances.
“Never again will the welfare of our workers be taken for granted. Nobody shall withhold what is due to you, not under my watch,” Otti declared.
The Governor stressed the importance of maintaining the refurbished facilities, urging civil servants to take ownership of the buildings.
“We all have an obligation to ensure these structures remain functional and well-maintained,” he said.
In conclusion, Otti reiterated his administration’s development-driven philosophy, emphasising a holistic transformation of Abia State through effective governance and improved socio-economic realities.