Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his commitment to merit-based appointments, stating that his administration will not apologize for prioritizing skills and competence over primordial sentiments.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service for the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education on Saturday, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, Otti emphasized that appointments are made regardless of familiarity or geographical origin.
“In our administration, we appoint people we know and people we don’t know. We know you do not guarantee your appointment and, that we didn’t know you, will not also stop you from being appointed.
“Our appointments are based on merit. Last year we appointed 24 Permanent Secretaries and they went through a process of writing tests, and oral interviews. It turned out that from one to 24, I didn’t know any of them.
“Something interesting happened for the first time in Abia State, some who were not from Abia, someone who wasn’t from the South East, someone from Edo emerged as a Permanent Secretary. This shows you that this administration is about skills, competence, capacity and merit. We can’t apologise for it.”
Otti highlighted the example of 24 Permanent Secretaries appointed last year, who underwent rigorous testing and interviews, demonstrating that his administration values merit above all else.
Notably, one of the appointed Permanent Secretaries is from Edo State, showcasing the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and skill-based selection.
The governor’s stance on merit-based appointments reflects his broader vision for Abia State’s development. Since taking office in May 2023, Otti has focused on creating a conducive environment for investment and growth.
His administration’s efforts have already yielded results, with Abia State ranking as the third investment destination in Nigeria after Lagos State and Abuja.
Otti’s leadership style and policies have garnered attention, with many observing that his experience as a banker and economist is shaping his approach to governance. As the governor continues to prioritize merit and competence, Abia State is poised for significant progress and development.
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Jerome Kalu
Jerome Kalu is currently the Senior Correspondent of PIJAlance in Lagos. He was previously the Campus Information Desk (CID) Editor.