The Enugu State Coalition for Progress (Enugu North Senatorial Zone Branch) on Friday, May 9, 2025, convened the maiden edition of its Dialogue Series I at Adada Hall, Nsukka Local Government Area. Themed “H.E. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah Administration – The Journey So Far (Education, Politics & Security),” the high-level gathering brought together key political stakeholders, government officials, academics, and Community leaders to assess the policies and progress of the current State administration.
The Dialogue Series, according to the organizers, aims to foster open and constructive civic engagement on critical governance issues in Enugu State. It also seeks to review and project the impact of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, especially on the pillars of education, politics, and security.
The Executive Chairman of Udenu Local Government Area, Hon. Aka Eze Aka, was among the prominent attendees at the summit. The Udenu Council Boss (who moderated the event) joined a distinguished lineup of discussants, including:
Prof. Osita Ogbu, Professor of Economics and Director, Institute for Development Studies, UNN;
Rt. Hon. Dennis Agbo, Member representing Udenu/Igbo-Eze North Federal Constituency;
Major General Victor Ezugwu (Rtd);
Dr. Mrs. Onyishi, among others.
In his remarks, Aka Eze Aka reiterated the importance of dialogue in participatory governance and praised the current administration for its commitment to transformational leadership at the grassroots. He emphasized the value of Governor Mbah’s development blueprint, particularly the massive investments in smart education infrastructure, primary healthcare revitalization, and security architecture across Enugu State.
The event, which was well attended, witnessed a strong delegation from Udenu LGA including the Leader of the Udenu Legislative Council, Rt. Hon. Patrick Ugwu. The team included Councillors representing Obollo Afor, Orba Ward II, Imilike, and Obollo Etiti.
Other dignitaries from Udenu who graced the Dialogue include:
Hon. Mrs. Anthonia Onyinye Odoh, Deputy Chairman of Udenu LGA;
Dr. Jude Ukwueze, Chief of Staff to the Udenu Chairman;
Hon. Maduka Abonyi, Special Political Adviser on Political Matters;
Hon. Basil Obetta, SPA on Project Implementations;
Hon. Chimezie Mba, SPA on Rural and Urban Development;
Dr. Chidiebere Nnamani, Consultant to the Council;
Onyekachi C. Ugwu, SPA on Special Duties;
Stanley Obiora, Special Assistant on Photographic Arts;
Hon. Dr. Innocent Ezeoba (Tekmore), former Vice Chairman of Udenu LGA.
The presence of notable elder statesmen, including Chief Maximus Ukuta, added further credibility and historical insight to the forum, same as the presence of Hon. Chukwudi Nnadozie, PDP State Secretary; Chief Dr. Barth Ezugwu, Member, Enugu State Local Government Service Commission;
In their various contributions, the discussants examined Governor Peter Mbah’s achievements and challenges since assuming office, with a particular spotlight on the 260 Smart Schools project, the health care reform targeting each political ward, and the strengthened local security framework.
The Dialogue Series was announced by Hon. Chinedu Onuh who is the Coordinator, and Prof. Simon Ortuanya, Secretary, and it marked a significant milestone in citizen-led accountability and participatory governance in Enugu State.
Observers say the interactive forum is a progressive step in consolidating the gains of democracy at the grassroots level and ensuring that policies and programs reflect the aspirations of the people. By fostering inclusive dialogue, the Enugu State Coalition for Progress has not only reaffirmed its role as a civic watchdog but also paved the way for more transparent and responsive governance.
As Enugu continues on its journey under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, forums such as this will remain vital in bridging the gap between government and the governed, reinforcing democratic ideals, and carving a brighter, united future for all residents of the state.
© AkaEzeAka Media Team.
