By Steve Oko

Governor Alex Otti, Thursday, inaugurated the Abia State Christian Pilgrims’ Welfare Board; and the Abia State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, respectively.

While the Christian Pilgrims’ Welfare Board is headed by the immediate-past Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Apostle Emmanuel Agomuo, the Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, has Sheikh Ali Ukiwo as its Chairman.

In his remarks during the inauguration held at the Banquet Hall, Government House Umuahia, Gov. Otti, who congratulated members of the Boards, said their appointment was purely based on merit, and devoid of any influence.

Otti said members of the Boards had distinguished themselves in the services of God and humanity, adding that he has confidence they will no betray the trust reposed in them.

The Governor who said his administration has penchant for competence, and accountability, tasked them on performance and uprightness.

He said: “Everyone who found his or her name as a member of the board is deserving of the appointment.

“I am aware that all of you, collectively and individually, have distinguished yourselves in the service of God and humanity.”

“I am aware you know clearly what is expected of you. In the new Abia, when you get an appointment, yes it is good to celebrate, but it is all about work.

“Your appointment is all about performance, and we know that you are going to perform; that is why we chose you”.

Responding on behalf of their respective members, Apostle Agomuo and Sheikh Ukiwo, thanked the Governor for reposing confidence in them, and promised to deliver.

Agomuo assured the Governor that no Abia Christian on pilgrimage in the Holy land would abscond under his watch.

Meanwhile, other members of the Christian Pilgrims’ Welfare Board include: Archbishop Chikezie Elekwa,

Rev. Prof. Mossy Madugba, Pastor Chioma Ibezim and Rev. Ojo Ojo Uduma.

Bishop Manesse Okorie, Bishop Dr. Udo Mmerrgini, Most Rev. Dr. Uma Onwunta

Pastor Uche Nwokeohuru, Rev. Father Gabriel Kalu, and Pastor Ugochukwu Chimereze, also made the list.

The members of the Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board include: Imam Musa Iroh, Yusuf Ukaegbu, Nwakanma Abubarkar Igwe, and Imam Bashiru Idris.

Other are Tukur Adamu Audu, Ikikiade Yusuf, Saide Umar, Hajia Azizat Jimoh and Hajia Hadiza Usman.

Vanguard News