The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti has sworn in Benson Ojeikere, an Edo State indigene, as the new head of Abia State Civil Service.
The appointment, which was made official on Monday, marks a historic moment in Ojeikere’s career in the state.
In a statement issued by the spokesman of the Governor, Ferdinand Ekeoma on Tuesday, revealed that Ojeikere first came to Abia State in 1999 as part of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program.
His outstanding performance during his service year earned him recognition as the best corps member and an automatic employment offer in the state’s civil service.
In 2023, Governor Otti appointed Ojeikere as a permanent secretary following a rigorous selection process where he excelled as one of the top candidates.
He served in the Government House in this capacity before his latest elevation to head of the civil service.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Otti congratulated Mr. Ojeikere on his well-deserved appointment and urged him to uphold the values of excellence and dedication.
The Governor stressed his administration’s commitment to fostering a merit-based system to enhance the efficiency and reputation of Abia’s civil service, making it a benchmark for others across Nigeria and beyond.
While expressing gratitude, Mr. Ojeikere admitted to being “still in shock” over his new role.
He reflected on his journey, stating that while he had consistently worked hard since joining the civil service, he never imagined advancing beyond the rank of senior director, let alone achieving the position of head of service.
He thanked Governor Otti for recognizing his efforts and allowing “God to use him” in reshaping perceptions of meritocracy within the civil service.
However, Mr. Ojeikere pledged to work tirelessly in alignment with the administration’s vision to revitalize the Abia State Civil Service, positioning it as a model for other states to emulate.
