Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has appointed Dr. Emmanuel Meribole as the Acting Secretary to the State Government (SSG), following the approval for Professor Kenneth Kalu, the current SSG, to proceed on a leave of absence.

The appointment was announced on Friday by Ukoha Njoku, the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary. Dr. Meribole, who currently serves as Special Adviser on Projects, will officially assume the acting role from January 1, 2026.

“To ensure a seamless transition, the handover process will begin on Monday, December 15, 2025. Professor Kalu will work closely with Dr. Meribole during this period to guarantee continuity in government operations and the implementation of the administration’s policies,” the statement said.

A medical doctor by training, Meribole is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in public service, having retired as Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. His tenure as Special Adviser has seen the successful execution of several developmental projects across the state.

Governor Otti praised Professor Kalu for his dedicated service to Abia State and expressed confidence in Meribole’s ability to maintain the administration’s momentum.