Following its determined stride toward enhancing grassroots governance and development, the Enugu State Government, through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, undertook a one-day working visit to Udenu Local Government Area today the 12th day of November 2024.
Accompanied by a team of relevant Government officials, he arrived at the Council Headquarters Obollo Afor at approximately 11:10 AM, where he was warmly received by the Local Government Chairman, Aka Eze Aka, alongside his Deputy, Hon. Mrs. Onyinye Odoh, Secretary to the Local Government, Rt. Hon. Chika Aroh, and several other stakeholders, including Onyekachi C. Ugwu.
This visit is part of the Enugu State Government’s strategic initiative to hand over ongoing State projects to Local Councilors, Traditional Rulers, and Town Union Leaders —empowering them to take charge of development initiatives in their respective Wards and Communities. It was an interactive session themed: “Smart Schools Project — Stakeholder Engagement.”
This ambitious program is directly linked to the administration’s broader vision under Governor Barr. Peter Mbah, aimed at ensuring effective monitoring and evaluation of various projects across the State.
Governor Mbah’s innovative approach allows Councilors and Community Leaders to function as direct custodians of State projects within their localities, providing a crucial mechanism for grassroots oversight. Prof. Onyia explained, “By engaging local representatives in overseeing these projects, we can ensure that the needs of the community are met while also fostering accountability within our governance structure.”
Among the ongoing projects highlighted during the visit are the construction of ten smart building projects, essential infrastructure aimed at enhancing educational and community services. Additionally, the Type C Primary Healthcare Centers are underway, a vital initiative aimed at improving healthcare access for the residents. Notably, the visit also underscored the forthcoming flag-off of a ten-kilometer road project—a partnership between the State Government and Local Council Chairmen across all 17 Local Government Areas in Enugu State, which aims to bolster road connectivity and economic activities within the State.
At the conclusion of his tour, Prof. Onyia lauded the efforts of Chairman Aka Eze Aka, expressing his belief that the Local Government is making remarkable strides in service delivery and community development initiatives. He emphasized the imperative of Local Governance in realizing the State’s developmental goals, stating, “Aka Eze Aka is the best among his peers, and he is doing an admirable job. His vision and commitment reflect our collective aspiration for rapid transformation in Enugu State.”
Earlier in his welcome address, Aka, while appreciating the SSG for the visit, eulogized the giant efforts of the State Governor— Barr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, highlighting the unprecedented support and transformative policies being implemented by his administration. He articulated optimism about the future, stating, “With the backing of the State Government and the unity of our people, we will continue to engage in projects that uplift and develop our communities.”
As the Enugu State Government continues to roll out its development initiatives, the collaboration between local Leaders and State authorities is poised to pave the way for sustained growth and progress in Udenu and the broader State. Prof. Onyia’s visit is seen as a catalyst for inspiration among the Councilors, encouraging them to remain committed to their roles as agents of change in their communities by providing checks and balances in the Local Government system.
The people of Udenu came out en mass to receive the SSG. Actively present at the session were all the Councilors, Traditional Rulers, and Town Union Presidents.
The people of Udenu are now left with a renewed sense of hope and enthusiasm, as they look forward to the impactful changes these projects are set to bring to their lives and surroundings.
© AkaEzeAka Media Team.
