Obi Swears In New SSG, Commissioners

Gov. Peter Obi of Anambra State on Friday in Awka swore in a new Secretary to the state Government and 12 commissioners with a warning to shun personal gain and enrichment.

The new Secretary to the State Government, Mr Henry Obaze, who replaced Chief Paul Odenigbo, was prior to his appointment, ?a United Nations official.

Congratulating the appointees, Obi said?that they were selected because of their track records of performance in their past endeavours.

He expressed the hope that they would deliver to the expectation of the citizenry and urged them to remain focused as their coming on board was a call to sacrificial service.

The governor observed that in spite of the harsh economic realities ravaging the globe and a two per cent decrease in the revenue collection of the state government, the state was financially stable.

“I intend to carry this financial stability through to the end of this administration.

“In the remaining 18 months of my administration, there are things we have to do and it is you that we will use to achieve them,” Obi said.

He told the appointees that people would approach them for one favour or the other, but asked them to always tread the path of rectitude in the performance of their duties.

Responding on behalf of the appointees, the secretary to the state government lauded Obi for restoring civility, peace and stability in the state.

Obaze expressed appreciation to the governor for finding them worthy to serve and that they would justify the confidence reposed in them by supporting him to deliver on his programmes to the people.

It will be recalled that a list of 12 nominees was forwarded by the governor to the state House of Assembly for consideration and confirmation as commissioners on June 19 and were confirmed on June 21.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Prof. Stella Okunna, Messrs Calistus Ilozumba, Emeka Nwankwo who were re-appointed, retained the ministries of Economic Planning and Budget, Works and Public Utilities respectively.

Other commissioners assigned portfolios are Messrs Vincent Ezenwaji ,? Special Duties, Patrick Obi, Housing, Joe-Martin Uzodike,?Information and Culture, Peter Afuba, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice and Robert Okonkwo, Commerce and Industry.

Others are Dr Edozie Aroh,?Youths and Sports, Dr Chike Ohamobi,?Transport, Mrs Azuka Enemuo,?Local Government and Henrietta Agbata,?Women Affairs. (NAN)