Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has approved the appointment of Dr. Anietie John Ukpe as his Deputy Chief of Staff (DCOS) in the Office of the President of the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria.The appointment, which was issued and made public on Tuesday takes effect from November 1, 2025 and replaces the former Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief (Dr.) Saviour Enyiekere, who is now chairman, National Assembly Service Commission, Abuja.
The appointment, conveyed through the Directorate of Human Resources and Staff Development, National Assembly, Abuja, reflects Senator Akpabio’s commitment to strengthening the Research, Strategy, and Communication capacities of his office in pursuit of legislative excellence and institutional development.Dr. Ukpe, a distinguished communication scholar, journalist, and public relations professional, brings to the position over three decades of multifaceted experience spanning broadcast journalism, public relations, advertising, media management, strategic communication, and leadership development.
A Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) holder in Business and Organizational Communication and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ukpe previously served as Director General of the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC). He is currently the Head of the Research and Speech Communication Unit in the Office of the Senate President.An accomplished writer and thought leader, Dr. Ukpe has delivered keynote addresses and facilitated workshops across Nigeria and internationally on leadership, communication ethics, and youth mentorship. He is also an ordained minister and leadership mentor, passionate about raising a new generation of value-driven public servants and nation-builders.
In his new capacity, Dr. Ukpe is expected to provide strategic advisory support, coordinate communication frameworks, and strengthen policy articulation and inter-institutional relations for the Office of the Senate President.Dr. Ukpe’s appointment is in accordance with the terms and conditions specified by the National Assembly Service Commission.


