(DDM) – Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has expanded and reshuffled his cabinet, splitting the Ministry of Lands and Housing while adding new commissioners and a special adviser to strengthen governance.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the adjustments were announced on Tuesday during a swearing-in ceremony at the Government House, Umuahia.
Governor Otti said the decision to reorganize his team was aimed at injecting fresh ideas, improving efficiency, and sustaining the reform agenda of his administration.
The Ministry of Lands and Housing has now been split into two separate portfolios, Lands and Housing, with Chaka Chukwumerije retaining Lands, while Arc. Chiemela Uzoije becomes Commissioner for Housing.
Dr. Salome Obiukwu was sworn in as Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, while Prince Christian Enweremadu assumed office as Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture.
In a related adjustment, former Trade and Commerce Commissioner Kingsley Nwokocha was moved to head the Ministry of Labour and Productivity, a portfolio that had remained vacant since the death of Commissioner Sunny Onwuma in March.
Governor Otti congratulated the appointees for successfully passing through the rigorous nomination and screening process that made them worthy of service in his administration.
He emphasized that the appointments were not ceremonial but a “call to serve” that required dedication, discipline, and integrity.
“You are all required to live above board as public officers, with the understanding that this is a call to serve, not an invitation to a banquet,” Otti told the new officials.
The governor further warned that his government has zero tolerance for corruption, stressing that anyone caught engaging in misconduct or mismanagement of public resources would be dismissed.
According to him, the reshuffle marks the mid-point of his administration’s journey, and there is no room for a honeymoon period.
He urged the new cabinet members to “hit the ground running” and seek support from experienced colleagues to meet the expectations of the Abia people.
Otti explained that the expansion reflects his strategy of continuous renewal, ensuring his team remains innovative and responsive to the demands of governance.
Political observers note that Otti has been under pressure to strengthen his cabinet as Abia continues to face challenges in infrastructure, industrial revival, and agricultural reforms.
By creating a separate Housing portfolio, the governor is expected to place stronger emphasis on urban renewal and affordable housing delivery in the state.
The inclusion of a Special Adviser on Agriculture also signals renewed attention to food security and rural economic growth in line with Otti’s campaign promises.
Governor Otti reminded his team that Abia residents expect tangible results and that leadership is a sacred trust that must be handled responsibly.
“Though the task you have the peculiar advantage of working with colleagues willing to share experiences,” he assured.
The governor’s statement reflected both optimism and urgency, warning that Abia’s development cannot be delayed by weak performance or bureaucratic complacency.
As the “New Abia” agenda enters a crucial phase, analysts say Otti’s cabinet expansion will be closely monitored to determine whether it translates into improved governance.