By Our Correspondent
Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has distributed 28 brand new Geely Emgrand vehicles to Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service, in a move aimed at enhancing service delivery and restoring pride in the public sector.
The official presentation ceremony took place on Tuesday at the newly commissioned Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia. Governor Otti said the vehicles were provided to ease the mobility challenges faced by Permanent Secretaries and to equip them to carry out their responsibilities more effectively.
Addressing the gathering, the governor stated that the vehicles were given at no cost to the recipients, clarifying that all documentation and financial arrangements had been handled by the government.
He noted that the appointments of the Permanent Secretaries were based strictly on merit, transparency, and competence. According to him, the selection process did not consider personal connections or favoritism, but rather focused on individual capability and integrity.
Governor Otti further explained that the initiative was part of a larger plan to transform the civil service in Abia State. He said the government is beginning a new phase of reform that would be driven by technology, digitisation, and improved access to internet services. He revealed that internet-enabled devices would soon be distributed across ministries to support a more modern and efficient approach to public administration.
He urged the Permanent Secretaries to take ownership of this reform and serve as drivers of change within the civil service. The governor also reassured them of his continued support and commitment to strengthening institutions and ensuring accountability across the public sector.
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, TPL Ukpabi Ukeje, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, expressed appreciation to the governor for his dedication to the welfare of civil servants. He described the gesture as a morale booster and pledged that they would remain committed to the administration’s goals.
Also speaking, Sir Chris Onwuegbu, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, said the gesture would go a long way in improving productivity and service delivery. He commended the governor for prioritising the needs of civil servants and promoting a merit-based system of governance.
The event was attended by key members of the state executive, including the Secretary to the State Government, the Head of Service, the Chief of Staff, commissioners, and other senior officials.
Governor Otti’s gesture has been widely praised as a practical step towards rebuilding the civil service and fostering a more efficient, motivated, and professional workforce in Abia State.
