Abia Appoints Edo-Born Bureaucrat as New Head of Service

An Edo State native, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, has been appointed as the new Head of Service for the Abia State Civil Service.

Gov. Alex Otti announced the appointment in a statement shared via the governor’s official X account on Tuesday.

Ojeikere, who until his elevation as number 1 civil servant in the state, was the Permanent Secretary, Abia State Government House.

“I am delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Benson Ojeikere, former Permanent Secretary of the Abia State Government House, as the new Head of Service for the Abia State Civil Service,” Otti shared.

“Originally from Edo State, Mr. Ojeikere completed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Abia State, where he distinguished himself as the best Youth Corps member and was subsequently granted automatic employment by the government of the time.

“Over the years, he has served diligently in the civil service, steadily rising through the ranks. Notably, he was also among the best in the Permanent Secretary examination category.”

Otti noted that the appointment reflects his administration’s commitment to promoting meritocracy, transforming governance in the state, and fostering a robust civil service.

“We aim to build a system where meritocracy triumphs over mediocrity and where the best and brightest can rise to the top, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds.”

He called on all Permanent Secretaries and civil servants to support and cooperate with the new Head of Service as he assumes duties.

The governor also thanked the outgoing Head of Service, Ngozi Queen Obioma, for her exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the Abia State Civil Service.