An Exclusive Interview with Hon. Chimezie Felix Mba, SPA on Urban and Rural Development
Hon. Chimezie Felix Mba hails from Umuashua Village in Orba Ward I, Udenu Local Government Area. With unmatched industry experience spanning over 17 years at the top echelons of commercial and corporate banking in Lagos, he is widely regarded as a man of both vision and execution.
Currently, Mr. Mba serves as the Managing Director of 34V Engineering Company, a reputable firm renowned for consistent innovation in Nigeria’s urban real estate sector. Under his dynamic leadership, the company has delivered landmark projects across major Nigerian cities, with a strong emphasis on environmentally conscious design, smart infrastructure, and inclusive community development.
Today, he also doubles as the Special Adviser on Urban and Rural Development to the Chairman of Udenu Local Government Council, Aka Eze Aka, a role in which he is helping to translate policy into tangible projects, including the much-celebrated solar-powered borehole initiative.
In this exclusive interview with The Concourse Media, Hon. Mba shares his personal journey, professional insights, and thoughts on how the new water project is reshaping grassroots life in Udenu.
Excerpts:
The Concourse Media: Hon. Mba, may we know you?
Hon. Chimezie Felix Mba: Thank you very much. I am Chimezie Felix Mba, an indigene of Umuashua Village in Orba Ward I, Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State. My professional journey spans over 17 years in commercial and corporate banking, mostly in Lagos, where I rose through the ranks to handle some of the biggest portfolios in the industry. Today, I serve as the Managing Director of 34V Engineering Company, where we are pioneering sustainable infrastructure and real estate projects across Nigeria. At the same time, I am privileged to serve my people, at the pleasure of our amiable Council Chairman, Aka Eze Aka, as the Special Adviser on Urban and Rural Development.
The Concourse Media: With such a rich background in banking and now in engineering and public service, how would you describe your philosophy of development?
Hon. Mba: For me, development must be both inclusive and sustainable. In banking, I learned the importance of accountability, transparency, and long-term planning. In engineering, I discovered the power of innovation and design in shaping communities. And now, in public service, under Aka Eze Aka and Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, I see firsthand how government policy can directly impact lives. My philosophy is simple: if it does not touch the ordinary man on the street, if it does not improve his health, livelihood, or dignity, then it is not true development.
The Concourse Media: Let us now talk about the ongoing solar-powered borehole project. How would you describe its significance to the people of Orba Ward I and Udenu in general?
Hon. Mba: This project is a game-changer. For decades, our people have suffered from water scarcity. Women and children trekked long distances to fetch water, often from unsafe sources. The health implications were severe, typhoid, cholera, diarrhea, you name it. When the Council Mayor, Aka Eze Aka, decided to embark on a solar-powered borehole in every ward, starting from Orba Ward I, it was a dream come true. The joy on the faces of our people that day was unforgettable. For the first time in history, they could say: “Water is no longer a problem.”
The Concourse Media: You were present when the project began. Can you share more about what you saw and felt on that day?
Hon. Mba: (Smiles) It was overwhelming. The streets of Orba came alive. You could see children playing around the facility, women singing, and elders offering prayers. Our traditional ruler, HRH Igwe Engr. Ezenwankwo, Ezennia I of Okara Orba, gave his royal blessing and spoke highly of the Chairman. It was not just a project launch, it was the restoration of dignity, a reminder that government still works for the people.
The Concourse Media: You are the MD of 34V Construction Company, with branches in over six states, and also the SPA on Urban and Rural Development. How do you balance your private engagements with your political responsibilities?
Hon. Mba: (Laughs lightly) It is all about commitment and passion. My private sector background has given me a broader perspective on project delivery, accountability, and sustainability. As SPA to the Chairman, I bring those same principles to public service. The good thing is that the Chairman himself is very transparent and result-driven. He gives room for professional advice and insists on quality execution. So, while my company continues to thrive across the country, my heart is deeply invested in ensuring that Udenu, my home, sets a standard in grassroots development. And this water project by our Mayor is a good way to show it.
The Concourse Media: As someone close to the Chairman, what inspired him to embark on such a project across all ten wards of Udenu?
Hon. Mba: Chairman Aka Eze Aka is a grassroots politician who listens. During his campaign, water was one of the most consistent cries of the people. He promised not just abstract policies but concrete results, roads, healthcare, and water. He understands that democracy must be felt at the grassroots, not just in speeches but in projects that transform daily life. That is his philosophy, and this borehole project is proof of it.
The Concourse Media: Critics sometimes argue that water projects are too basic for a government promising “integral development.” How do you respond to that?
Hon. Mba: I find that argument shortsighted. What is more integral than water? Without clean water, you cannot talk of health, education, or productivity. This project is not basic; it is foundational. It is laying the ground for every other aspect of development. And remember, the Chairman is also renovating healthcare facilities, constructing roads, and creating youth empowerment programs, such as the Udenu ICT Innovation Hub kicking off soon. So, this is not either-or. It is a holistic approach.
The Concourse Media: How is sustainability being ensured so that these facilities don’t break down in a few months, as we’ve seen in the past?
Hon. Mba: That is a valid concern, but this project is different. First, it is solar-powered, which eliminates the problem of unreliable electricity or diesel costs. Second, Local water committees will be set up in each ward to oversee daily operations and report issues. Finally, the Local Government has plans to provide a budget for routine maintenance. This is not a one-off political show; it is a sustainable system designed to serve the people long-term.
The Concourse Media: Beyond water, where do you see Udenu heading under the leadership of Aka Eze Aka?
Hon. Mba: I see Udenu setting a national standard for grassroots development. By the time his tenure is over, we will have improved roads, functioning healthcare centers, vibrant schools, and thriving small businesses. Most importantly, I see a Local Government where democracy means real change, where promises are not just words but tangible realities in people’s lives.
The Concourse Media: Finally, what is your message to the people of Udenu, especially the people of Orba Ward I?
Hon. Mba: My message is one of gratitude and encouragement. To the people of Orba, thank you for your patience. Your cries have been heard, and more development projects will soon follow. To all of Udenu, I say: let us protect and support these facilities. Let us work hand in hand with government to ensure these gains are sustained. And most importantly, let us believe again that our Leaders can deliver.
The Concourse Media: Thank you very much, Hon. Mba, for your time and insights.
Hon. Mba: Thank you. It was my pleasure.
