Billionaires, a retired air marshal, industrialists and others, including a non-indigene have taken charge as mayors of Abia State local governments to under the transition committee arrangement.
The appointees include Chief David Ogba, chairman/founder Bourdex Group Ltd; Ide John Udeagbala, chairman/CEO J. Udeagbala Holdings Nig Ltd and Air Vice Marshal Chiwendu Onyike (rtd).
Governor Alex Otti swore in the mayors and their deputies yesterday at Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia, the state capital, saying they were carefully selected for the appointments.
He said their first task is strengthening the security architecture in the towns and villages within their domain, especially as the Yuletide approaches.
He said, “Your primary task as mayors and deputies shall be to make the local communities and towns conducive for active production and rapid growth.
As you may be aware, Abia has become the most beautiful bride amongst investors and you would do well to position your areas as a top destination within the state.
“We do not expect you to get everything right on the first day but you must be willing to learn, keeping your mind open to new ideas and possibilities. As I conclude, may I assure you that my doors will constantly be open to welcome and offer you all the support you need to succeed as mayors and deputies,” he said.
Earlier, the commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, said there is no doubt that they will deliver based on their antecedents and pedigrees.
In their responses, the mayors of Isiala Ngwa South, Arochukwu, and Ikwuano local governments, Dr Nwabuisi Elelenta, Joe Ezearu, and Osinachi Nwaka expressed appreciation for the opportunity.
They assured of their commitment to work with the current administration in the state to deliver on its campaign promises to develop their areas and the people creditably.
