The Federal Government has appealed to the Abia State Government to provide suitable office accommodation for the Federal Information Centre to enhance its operations and improve staff working conditions.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr Binyerem C. Ukaire, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to Governor Alex Otti in Umuahia.
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Dr Ukaire commended the Otti administration for its efforts in infrastructure development, public service reforms and workers’ welfare.
She specifically highlighted improvements in transportation, healthcare, education and environmental management, citing the Nnenna Otti Bus Terminal and the introduction of electric buses as examples of the administration’s commitment to improving public services.
The Permanent Secretary explained that providing suitable accommodation for the Federal Information Centre would strengthen its capacity to discharge its public information responsibilities effectively.
She also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting accurate, timely and responsible information on government policies, programmes and development initiatives.
Dr Ukaire appreciated the Governor for the cordial relationship between the state government and the Federal Information Centre, as well as his goodwill following her appointment as Permanent Secretary representing the South-East geopolitical zone.
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Responding, Governor Otti assured the delegation that the request would receive due consideration.
He directed the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, to liaise with relevant officials to identify suitable office accommodation for the Centre.
The Governor emphasised that his administration does not discriminate between federal and state institutions, noting that government projects and interventions ultimately benefit the people.
He said the state government remained committed to supporting federal institutions operating in Abia and commended the Ministry for publicising development activities in the state.
Governor Otti cited interventions at federal establishments, including the Nigerian Navy College of Accounts and Finance in Owerrinta, as examples of the state’s commitment to intergovernmental cooperation.
He congratulated Dr Ukaire on her appointment and expressed readiness to sustain a cordial working relationship with the Ministry.
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The Permanent Secretary was accompanied by the Head of the Federal Information Centre, Mrs Gloria Abiakam.
Also present were the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu; the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Information, Sir Chris Onwuegbu; and other government officials.