The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has raised concerns over increasing encroachment on its landed properties in Abia State, prompting Governor Alex Otti to order immediate measures, including a comprehensive survey and recovery of affected assets.

The intervention followed a complaint by the Abia State Postal Manager of NIPOST, Mrs Winifred Amadi, during her maiden visit to the governor in Umuahia.

Amadi appealed to the state government to protect NIPOST’s properties and halt the activities of individuals allegedly encroaching on lands where its facilities are located.

She cited a specific incident in Item, Bende Local Government Area, where NIPOST staff were reportedly driven out by suspected land grabbers.

NIPOST operates post offices and related facilities across the state, many of which, according to observations, are underutilised or abandoned—largely due to declining patronage of traditional postal services.

The postal manager also proposed areas of collaboration with the state government, including the adoption of NIPOST Express Mail Service (EMS) as the official logistics courier for government correspondence, parcels, and merchandise.

She further suggested the introduction of a commemorative postal stamp to showcase Abia’s cultural heritage on the global stage.

Amadi commended Governor Otti’s development efforts, noting that his governance style and reforms are gaining recognition beyond the state.

Responding, Governor Otti described the encroachment on NIPOST lands as illegal and unacceptable, assuring that the state would take decisive steps to address the situation.

He directed the Commissioners for Lands, as well as Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, to carry out a proper survey of all NIPOST properties, clearly demarcate them, secure the assets, and ensure their return to the federal agency.

“We will conduct a proper survey of all NIPOST properties, mark them appropriately, secure them, and hand them back to the agency,” the governor said, while also ordering immediate action to address the situation in Item.

Officials present at the meeting included the Abia State Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu; Senior Special Assistant on Transport, Dr Obioma Nwaogbe; Chief Information Officer, Mr Gerald Ilukwe; and Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Comrade Samuel Igwe, among others. The Guardian)