Abia State has made history by appointing Benson Ojeikere, an Edo State native, as its first non-indigenous Head of Service (HOS).

Ojeikere’s remarkable journey began when he joined the Abia State Civil Service after being automatically employed by the state government for emerging as the best state youth corps member during the 1999/2000 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year.

Before his historic appointment, Ojeikere served as the Permanent Secretary in the Government House, Umuahia, rising through the ranks with an exemplary track record.

The state’s Information Commissioner, Prince Okey Kanu, described the appointment as a landmark decision.

“Governor Otti believes in breaking barriers and fostering excellence, regardless of origin,” Kanu stated.

He added that Ojeikere’s swearing-in signifies a new era in Abia State’s governance, where competence and dedication triumph over regional divides.