The Secretary to the Abia State Government, Professor Kenneth Kalu, has formally begun a leave of absence after securing the approval of Governor Alex Otti.
The development was disclosed during Monday’s State Executive Council meeting, where the governor confirmed that the SSG would be travelling to Canada to attend to “some serious domestic matters” that need his presence.
Governor Otti, while explaining the decision to council members, noted that the duties of the SSG are too central to the administration to be handled remotely.
He stressed that the office demands physical coordination, frequent communication with ministries, and close oversight of government activities.
According to him, allowing the SSG to function from abroad would affect the pace and cohesion of governance.
The governor also used the moment to appreciate Professor Kalu for what he described as outstanding stewardship since the administration came on board.
He commended him for the “excellent services” he has rendered, adding that the government remains grateful for his commitment and sacrifice.
Responding during the session, Professor Kalu expressed deep appreciation to Governor Otti and members of the council.
He said serving in the administration was an honour, noting that he was privileged to be part of a government that, in his words, has “wiped the tears of Abia people and made them proud.”
He assured the EXCO that he would still offer support to the government even while abroad. “Above all, having the opportunity to serve in a government that has wiped the tears of Abia people and made them proud, was a dream come through, hence my gratitude to Governor Otti for his support,” he said.
Before his appointment as SSG, Professor Kalu was a respected academic in Canada, where he served as a Senior University Don. He is also a Chartered Accountant and hails from Abam in Arochukwu Local Government Area.
His move into Abia politics began when he took a leave from his academic work to join Governor Otti’s campaign, eventually becoming a key member of the administration after the 2023 election victory.
However, his temporary departure creates a notable gap in the state’s administrative hierarchy, given the strategic role of the SSG in coordinating government operations.
The government is expected to announce interim arrangements in the coming days to ensure continuity.
