Otti Swears In New Appointees, Warns Against Corruption
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has sworn in Dr. Emmanuel Meribole as the Special Adviser on Projects and Amb. Annie Onu, as the Executive Secretary of the Abia State Diaspora Commission, urged them to embrace hard work and dedication in their respective roles.
The swearing-in ceremony, which took place on Wednesday at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Umuahia, saw Governor Otti reaffirm his administration’s zero tolerance for corruption and poor performance, emphasising that Abia deserves the best.
“Here, we have zero tolerance for corruption and poor performance. Our expectations are always very high because Abia deserves nothing but the best,” he said.
Governor Otti commended Dr. Meribole for his remarkable career transition from medicine to engineering and construction, having retired as a Permanent Secretary from the Federal Ministry of Aviation.
He described him as a square peg in a square hole, adding, “Coming from the aviation industry, I believe we can go to bed with our two eyes closed because he knows what to do. We have already started engaging, monitoring the contract laws, ensuring that everything goes well with the construction of the Abia Airport.”
For Ambassador Annie Onu, the governor charged her to effectively coordinate the affairs of the Diaspora Commission, maintain valuable contacts with Abians abroad, and create channels for them to contribute to the development of the state.
“I urge you to ensure that a connection is maintained between Abians abroad and home. Those who can contribute to the state’s development should have a channel through which they can do so,” he stated.
In their separate remarks, Dr. Meribe Ole and Ambassador Ane Onu pledged to bring their wealth of experience to bear in their respective roles.
Dr. Meribe Ole expressed gratitude to the governor for the opportunity, saying he is grateful for the trust placed in him.
“I promise to bring together my experience and work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that the projects under my supervision meet the highest standards,” he said.
Similarly, Ambassador Onu vowed to be dedicated, transparent, and diligent in her responsibilities.
“I commit myself to this mission and to the Abians in the diaspora who love their state. I pledge my loyalty, my commitment, and my transparency to ensure that this government succeeds,” she said.
Governor Otti urged them to remain focused despite challenges, noting that Abia State prioritises excellence in governance.
“People will oppose you, but as long as you remain focused, you will reach your destination,” he advised.
Otti Swears In New Appointees, Warns Against Corruption is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
