Reported by: Agande Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
Umuahia – The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has stressed that appointments within his government are strictly based on merit and track records, asserting that government is not a place for apprenticeship or learning on the job.
Governor Otti made the statement on Friday, October 10, 2025, during the 60th birthday celebration of Sir Nwaobilor Nwadimma Ananaba, the Abia State Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, held at the New Eastern Comfort Hotel in Umuahia.
“This is a government that relies on track record. There are those who feel that government is a place for apprenticeship or where you learn work. You don’t learn work with our government. If you don’t know the job, you can’t be here. We will tell you to go and learn the work, and then you come. So, there must be a track record,” Dr. Otti said.
The governor described the appointees in his administration as accomplished individuals and emphasized that appointments are not favors, but positions given to those who can deliver results. “When people come and say, ‘Oh, thank you for appointing me,’ I say you don’t need to thank me because we expect a whole lot. And, if you didn’t merit it, we will never give you the position, and we don’t care whose ox is gored. And, if you merit it, no matter what, you will get the position,” he added.
Dr. Otti reiterated that the “new Abia standard” is anchored on competence and merit. He commended Sir Ananaba for his performance at the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, reminding him that “the reward for good work is more work.”
The governor also wished the commissioner many more healthy years, saying, “You have seen 60, you will see 70, and you will see 80, and see 90, and if you so wish and if the Lord tarries, you will also see 100.” The audience responded with a chorus of “Amen!”
In his appreciation speech, Sir Ananaba thanked Governor Otti for his support and the opportunity to serve in the new Abia administration, which he said has positively transformed the state. He also expressed gratitude to everyone who joined him in the celebrations.
The birthday event featured testimonies from colleagues and friends, the ceremonial cutting of the cake, and was attended by top government officials, including the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa; the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie Nmeregini; the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu; the Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere; commissioners; local government chairpersons; and other dignitaries.
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