The event, held at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House in Enugu, marked a fresh chapter in the governor’s ongoing reforms to reposition the state’s governance structure and fast-track development delivery.
Dr Godwin Anigbo was formally sworn in as the new Head of Service, succeeding the outgoing official, as Governor Mbah described the role as critical in shaping public service efficiency and driving government reforms.
New Commissioners and Their Portfolios
The newly sworn-in commissioners and their assigned ministries are:
Engr. Benjamin Osita Okoh – Works and Infrastructure
Prof. Benedett Ekwutosi Okoli – Human Development and Poverty Eradication
Enyinna Franklin Ogbonna – Energy and Mineral Resources
Dr. Samuel Ogbu-Nwobodo – Trade, Investment and Industry
Prof. George Ugwu – Health
Engr. Ben Collins Ndu Jr. – Water Resources
Additionally, three commissioners were reassigned:
Dr. Felix Nnamani – Labour and Employment
Dr. Malachy Agbo – Information
Engr. Gerald Otiji – Housing
Chizoba Ogbodo, a representative from the Ministry of Justice, administered the oath of office.
“No Honeymoon Period” – Mbah Sets the Tone
Governor Mbah, while addressing the appointees, made it clear that the administration’s standards
remain high and performance expectations must be met without delay.“You would soon notice that here in Enugu, we have stirred such a high expectation among our people. Every day feels like we’re presenting a scorecard,” he said.
Emphasising his administration’s metrics-driven culture, Mbah added, “There will be no honeymoon period. We operate with set targets and key performance indicators. Your outcomes will be measured, analysed and evaluated constantly.”
He encouraged the new commissioners to embrace collective responsibility and shun rivalry, saying teamwork is non-negotiable.
“We do not encourage silos. Your colleagues are not your competitors; they are your collaborators. Our accomplishments are collective, not the feat of a lone champion,” he added.
Appointees Pledge Dedication
Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated officials, Dr. Samuel Ogbu-Nwobodo expressed gratitude to the governor for the trust reposed in them.
“We understand the weight of this assignment and the need to deliver. We will remain loyal to our oath and contribute meaningfully to the success your government has recorded,” he said.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The ceremony was graced by top state officials, including Deputy Governor Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Chief of Staff Mr Victor Udeh, several commissioners, senior aides, and spouses of the new appointees.
