Abia State 34 years of existence and two years of Governor Alex Chioma Otti’s reform-driven leadership have been an issue of public interest as attention shifts to the tier of government closest to the people — the local government system. At the heart of this structure lies the Local Government Service Commission (LGSC), an institution that shapes the efficiency, professionalism, and delivery of services across the 17 Local Government Areas of the state. Steering this critical engine of grassroots governance is Elder Nwokochah James Ebere (JP), Chairman of the Commission. Known for his calm but firm administrative style, Elder Nwokochah with his team, has brought renewed energy into repositioning the LGSC as a vehicle for accountability, capacity development, and staff welfare. The Commission aligns seamlessly with Governor Otti’s “Rebuild Abia” agenda, ensuring that governance is not only seen at the top but also felt at the grassroots. In this exclusive interview with the Editor, National Ambassador Newspapers; Deacon Chukwuemeka Egejuru, Elder Nwokochah speaks on the progress so far, the challenges of grassroots administration, and his vision for a revitalized local government system that truly serves the people of Abia State.
Excerpt:
Abia State is 34 years old. Looking back, how would you assess the growth and challenges of the local government system since the creation of the state in 1991?
The local government system in Abia has come a long way since 1991. From very modest beginnings, we have seen gradual improvements in infrastructure, human capacity, and service delivery at the grassroots. However, challenges have persisted—particularly issues of inadequate funding, manpower gaps, and sometimes politicization of the system. What is most encouraging is that each administration has contributed in its own way, and today, under Governor Alex Otti, we are experiencing a holistic reform-driven push to reposition local governments as true engines of grassroots development.
In what ways has the Local Government Service Commission contributed to the overall development of Abia State?
The Commission is essentially the human resource manager of the third tier of government. Our contribution has been to ensure that the right people are recruited, trained, and properly deployed to serve Abians at the grassroots. Beyond personnel management, we have taken steps to instill professionalism, accountability, and welfare support for staff so that they are motivated to deliver quality services. A well-trained and committed workforce is the foundation of sustainable development, and that is where our impact is most visible. Governor Alex Otti’s administration in two years has done so much in this direction and workers should reciprocate with more commitment.
Since the assumption of office by Governor Alex Chioma Otti two years ago, what significant reforms or changes have been introduced in the local government system?
Governor Otti’s administration has brought unprecedented reforms. First, there has been a deliberate emphasis on transparency and accountability—ensuring that local government funds are utilized for the people. Secondly, staff welfare has been prioritized, with prompt payment of salaries and pensions. Thirdly, a strong emphasis is now placed on merit, discipline, and professionalism within the system regardless of where any worker is coming from in line with the unified system. These reforms are changing the narrative of local government administration in Abia.
How has the Governor’s “Rebuild Abia” agenda influenced the operations and priorities of the LGSC?
The “Rebuild Abia” agenda is our guiding compass. It emphasizes rebuilding institutions, not just infrastructure. At the LGSC, this means building a workforce that is efficient, honest, and people-centered. We are aligning our operations to ensure that the local government system reflects the Governor’s vision of service delivery, accountability, and grassroots development.
What specific improvements have you observed in staff welfare, capacity building, and efficiency within the local government service under this administration?
The difference is clear. Staff are now more motivated because they receive their salaries and pensions promptly.
Also as I speak, the Commission, in line with Gov. Otti’s administration vision, have started rolling out structured training programmes, some in collaboration with external partners. There is a renewed culture of discipline and performance monitoring, which is gradually improving service delivery at the grassroots. — Local Government Autonomy and Service Delivery
Local governments are often described as the closest tier of government to the people. How is the Commission ensuring that LGAs in Abia truly deliver grassroots governance?
By focusing on manpower and professionalism. We will ensure that qualified staff are recruited once there is a need for recruitment and deployed where their services are most needed.
There is no doubt that the 17 LG councils are meaningfully being engaged in the transformational agenda of His Excellency, in terms of infrastructure, Human Capacity Development among others.
What is the Commission doing to strengthen transparency, accountability, and professionalism among local government staff?
We have introduced stricter monitoring and evaluation systems, regular audits of staff performance, and disciplinary measures for misconduct. Equally important, we are rewarding excellence to encourage professionalism. Our goal is to create a culture where public servants see themselves as accountable to the people, by changing their awkward orientation.
How are issues of ghost workers, redundancy, and manpower gaps being addressed?
Gov. Otti’s administration has taken a firm stand on ghost workers. The Commission has put in place a panel to fish out ghost workers and defaulters of biometric offences from the system. Investigation is ongoing.
We have conducted verification exercises to clean up the payroll. Redundancy is being managed through redeployment and retraining, while manpower gaps are gradually being handled. Capacity Building and Human Capital Development is indeed the Commission’s watch word.
What training and retraining opportunities are being provided for local government workers to enhance service delivery?
We have reactivated regular training workshops, seminars, and leadership courses for staff at all levels. These cover areas like financial management, ICT skills, and customer service. The idea is to make sure our workforce is continuously updated with modern knowledge and practices in line with Gov Otti’s “New Abia” agenda.
How is the Commission integrating technology and digital processes into the operations of local governments in Abia?
Technology is the future, and we are gradually digitizing local government processes. Staff attendance and payroll systems are being digitized to curb fraud. We are also exploring e-governance platforms to make services faster, more transparent, and accessible to the public.
Are there deliberate efforts to encourage youth and women participation within the local government workforce?
Absolutely. We are deliberately studying the LG system to ascertain if there is a need to recruit more young people into the service and encouraging gender inclusion. Until the Commission finishes sanitizing the system, we cannot request for the approval for recruitment from His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti.
Meanwhile, women are now occupying key administrative positions across the LGAs, and we see this as vital for balanced and inclusive governance. Gov. Alex Otti is a gender-friendly Governor and we have also aligned to that.
For instance, here in the Commission, we have also keyed into the Gov. Otti’s administration inclusive governance as our Permanent Secretary, Director of Finance and the Public Relations Officer are all women and they are all doing very well.
What are the biggest challenges facing the Local Government Service Commission today, and how are you addressing them?
Funding and infrastructure deficits have been major constraints before now. Resistance to change on the path of the workforce has also been a challenge to the system.
Gladly enough, our Governor, has taken care of all these sufficiently but like Oliver Twist the Commission still expect more.
We are also tackling them head-on through prioritization, partnerships, and continuous sensitization of staff through training and training workshops.
How is the Commission collaborating with other government agencies and stakeholders to achieve its mandate?
Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. We work closely with the Ministry of Local Government, the Office of the Head of Service, training institutes, and even civil society organizations. These partnerships help us broaden our reach, improve capacity building, and enhance service delivery.
Looking ahead, what is your vision for the LGSC and the local government system in Abia in the next 5–10 years?
The greatest problem the system will have is if there is lack of sustainability and momentum. The strength of every system lies in the quality of her leadership.
That’s why Abians at home and diaspora should pray earnestly for our amiable Governor and pragmatic leader so that God will touch his heart to sustain this divine mandate.
My vision is to build a fully professionalized, technology-driven, and people-oriented local government system. In 5–10 years, I want to see our LGAs function as true engines of grassroots development where citizens can feel the presence of government in their daily lives.
If you were to highlight one key legacy you wish to leave as Chairman of the Commission, what would it be?
A legacy of being proactive, accountable, people-centeredness and professionalism oriented.
Also, I want to be remembered as the Chairman who repositioned the LGSC into a truly modern, people-focused institution that restored confidence in local government administration.
Finally, what’s your overall assessment of Governor Otti? I must sincerely thank God for blessing Abia with a man of vision, integrity, and courage like His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR. He came at a time when the state was in dire need of purposeful leadership and has since demonstrated uncommon commitment to rebuilding Abia on the path of transparency, accountability, and progress.
Governor Otti is not only salvaging the state from years of decay but is also laying solid foundations for sustainable development. His emphasis on prudence in managing resources, prompt payment of workers’ salaries and pensions, infrastructural renewal, and institutional reforms are clear testimonies of his resolve to make governance truly serve the people.
As we celebrate Abia’s 34th anniversary of statehood, I, on behalf of the Local Government Service Commission, extend heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency. I also urge all Abians at home and in the diaspora to continue supporting him in prayers and in deeds, so that the good work he has started will be sustained.
Without mincing words, I can boldly say that Abia is in safe hands under Governor Otti.
