Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has appointed Dr. Emmanuel Meribole as the Acting Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
The announcement was made in a statement released and signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Njoku Njoku, on Friday in Umuahia.
According to the statement, the appointment comes after the substantive SSG, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, was granted a leave of absence.
It added that Meribole, who currently serves as the Governor’s Special Adviser on Projects, will officially take over the role on January 1, 2026.
The statement added that the handover process will begin on Monday, to ensure seamless continuity of government’s business.
“The transition period will allow Prof. Kenneth Kalu to work closely with Dr Meribole to maintain stability and ensure the smooth execution of the administration’s programmes,” he said .
He described Meribole as a seasoned professional and former Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, who played a key role in advancing developmental projects in the state.
“Emmanuel Meribole, a medical doctor, is a seasoned multi talented professional who retired as the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
“His contributions as Special Adviser to the Governor on Projects, have helped in driving key developmental initiatives across the State,” he said
He said that his new role as acting SSG, is a testament to his proven competence, dedication and commitment to advancing the vision of the administration.
