Governor Otti Swears In Edo Indigene As Abia Head Of Civil Service
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, on Monday, officially swore in Benson Ojeikere as the new Head of the state’s Civil Service. The appointment marks a milestone in Abia State’s civil service reforms, as Mr. Ojeikere, who hails from Edo State, becomes a symbol of Governor Otti’s commitment to excellence and meritocracy.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by the Governor’s media aide, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Benson Ojeikere’s inspiring journey began in 1999 when he was posted to Abia State for his mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme after completing his university education. During his service year, Mr. Ojeikere distinguished himself by emerging as the best corps member in the state, earning him automatic employment in the Abia State civil service.
Over the years, Mr. Ojeikere steadily rose through the ranks, showcasing an exemplary work ethic and dedication to duty. In 2023, he was appointed as a permanent secretary after excelling in the rigorous selection process. He was posted to the Government House, where he served until his recent appointment as the Head of the Civil Service.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Alex Otti congratulated Mr. Ojeikere on his well-deserved appointment and urged him to uphold the principles of excellence and professionalism in his new role. The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a robust and efficient civil service that would serve as a reference point in Nigeria and beyond.
Governor Otti reassured the people of Abia of his dedication to prioritizing meritocracy over mediocrity, emphasizing that appointments in his administration would continue to reflect competence and dedication.
Expressing gratitude, Benson Ojeikere admitted that he was “still in shock” over his historic appointment. He noted that while he had worked diligently throughout his career, he never imagined rising beyond the rank of senior director, let alone becoming a permanent secretary or the Head of the Civil Service.
Mr. Ojeikere thanked Governor Otti for recognizing his hard work and for being instrumental in what he described as a divine intervention. He pledged to align with the Governor’s vision and work tirelessly to reposition the Abia State civil service into a model admired both within and outside Nigeria.
In his new role, Mr. Ojeikere aims to contribute significantly to the state’s ongoing civil service reforms. He promised to justify the confidence placed in him by ensuring that Abia State’s civil service remains a beacon of excellence and efficiency.
