Ambassador Dr. Osita Offor, “De Ultimate Commander” (Ikenga Gburugburu) extends his heartfelt appreciation to Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, and his amiable wife Mrs. Priscilla Chidinmma Otti, for the grand send-forth ceremony held in honour of Prof. Kenneth Kalu, the former Secretary to the Government of Abia State. This ceremony, held on 20th February at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia, was a remarkable celebration of Prof. Kalu’s exceptional contributions to the development and progress of Abia State.

In his commendation, Ambassador Offor highlighted the significance of this gesture, noting that such a ceremonial send-off is a testament to the Governor’s leadership and respect for individuals who have selflessly served the state. Governor Otti’s recognition of Prof. Kalu’s dedication to public service exemplifies the values of appreciation and respect for those who have made meaningful contributions to the state’s development.

The event, which commenced at 5:00 pm, was marked by an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy. Attendees gathered to express their collective gratitude for Prof. Kalu’s years of committed service to Abia State. Governor Otti, in his remarks, expressed deep admiration for Prof. Kalu’s visionary leadership, noting that the state had greatly benefitted from his contributions. He emphasized that Prof. Kalu’s legacy of good governance would inspire future generations of public servants in the state.

Prof. Kalu’s unwavering commitment to the development of Abia was widely acknowledged, with many dignitaries present praising his pivotal role as former SSG in shaping the state’s journey toward sustainable development. Governor Otti also recently appointed Prof. Kalu to a new position as President – Abia Leadership Academy; underscoring his ongoing value to the state’s growth and progress.

Ambassador Offor also commended Governor Otti for creating an environment where such recognition and appreciation of public service can take place. He believes that such events not only honor individuals but also set an example for other leaders and public servants in the state.

As the ceremony concluded, well-wishes were extended to Prof. Kalu as he embarks on his next chapter, while the state reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the work of progress and development that he has helped to establish.

The ceremony was graced by numerous distinguished guests, including the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu; Former Abia State Deputy Governor, Hon. Sir Ude Oko-Chukwu; Rt. Hon. Dr. Agwu U. Agwu, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Abia State University (ABSU), appointed by Governor Alex Otti; Labour Party Chairman, Chief Emmanuel Otti; The Commander of the 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, Ohafia, Brigadier General Ahmad Dikko; Chief David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex; Chief of Staff to Governor Alex Otti, Pastor Caleb Ajagba (Ph.D); New Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole; the Wife of the Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Dr. Mrs. Ezinne Ben. Kalu; as well as two former SSGs of Abia State: Mazi Donatus Okolie and Dr. Eme Okoro. Political Advisers, captains of industries, monarchs, clergymen, and several other notable personalities were also present to witness the memorable occasion.

Indeed, the Abia state governor has truly set a new standard in the administration of Abia state by working with only the very qualified and best hands the state can boast of; little wonder the outcome in a short time has continued to defy familiar outcomes in the Nigerian political space.