From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, has commended his Bayelsa counterpart, Senator Douye Diri, for appointing an Abia State-born Johnson Onuma as a Commissioner in Bayelsa State.
According to a statement made available to newsmen by the Commissioner’s Aide, Tony Olikagu on Friday, Governor Otti, made the commendation when he interacted with Mazi Johnson Onuma, the Commissioner for Special Duties, General Services in Bayelsa State, while paying him a courtesy visit.
Ottie lauded Governor Diri for demonstrating excellence in inclusive governance. He likened Governor Diri’s action to similar opportunities provided to non-indigenes who have showcased excellence in Abia State.
The Commissioner during the visit informs his state of origin Governor of Diri’s favourable leadership style and how non-indigenes, especially Abians are benefiting. He also explored potential avenues for enhanced economic collaboration between the two states.
The Bayelsa Special Duties and General Services Commissioner also highlighted the inclusive governance and protection non-indigenes enjoy under Senator Diri’s administration.
Mazi Johnson Onuma, who was initially sent to Bayelsa State in 2004 under the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to community leadership and his private endeavors. These qualities earned him an appointment as Special Adviser on Non-Indigenes by Governor Diri in 2021. The move aligned with the Governor’s commitment to broadening political opportunities for residents, irrespective of origin.
Upon his reelection in 2024, Governor Diri reaffirmed his dedication to diversity and inclusion by appointing Mazi Johnson Onuma as the Commissioner for Special Duties, General Services, making him a member of the State Executive Council.
This landmark appointment has been widely praised by Nigerians, who have described it as a “round peg in a round hole,” applauding Governor Diri for championing diversity and inclusion in governance across the nation.