By Ngozi Okoli
Ekwusigo Local Government Area(LGA) of Anambra State is poised for a major development milestone as Governor Chukwuma Soludo prepares to commission series of landmark projects executed by the LGA Chairman, Hon. James Chimezie Obi.
For years, the local government, comprising Ozubulu, Orifite, Ihembosi and Ichi communities, struggled with inadequate infrastructure and limited social amenities. Today, however, residents say the area is witnessing a remarkable transformation driven by deliberate investments in infrastructure, security and public service delivery.
Hon. Obi, who previously served as Transition Committee Chairman before emerging as the elected LGA chairman, has been widely commended for his prudent management of resources and commitment to grassroots development. Under his administration, Ekwusigo has recorded significant improvements across key sectors and is increasingly regarded as one of the safest LGA in Anambra State.
Among the projects scheduled for commissioning are a three-kilometre road fitted with streetlights linking Ekwusigo to neighbouring communities, a renovated and fully furnished legislative building at the local government secretariat, and a reconstructed Community Town Hall.
Other projects include the rehabilitation of the former intro-tech laboratory and WAEC Hall at Community Secondary School, Ihembosi; installation of CCTV cameras across the LGA; construction of a 30KVA mini-grid powering the entire Local Government Secretariat; a traditional rulers’ building; functional boreholes; an ICT and surveillance control room; and modern toilet facilities within the secretariat.
Speaking after a media inspection tour of the projects on June 23, Nze Pius Afulukwe described the reconstructed Ihembosi–Ozubulu road as a game changing intervention that has improved transportation and stimulated economic activities within the area.
A trader, Mrs. Chioma Udemba, lauded the LGA chairman’s performance, noting that the visible improvements across the local government have positively impacted residents and businesses alike. She prayed for God’s continued guidance and blessings upon the chairman.
Also speaking, Mr. Ekene Anene of Ihembosi recalled that the road had become virtually impassable before its reconstruction, posing serious challenges to motorists and residents, expressing appreciation to the mayor’s administration for delivering what he described as a transformative project.
Similarly, commercial motorcyclist Mr. Ebere Nebe and motorcycle mechanic Engr. Benjamin Chukwugozie, from Ozubulu and Ihembosi respectively, said the improved road network has reduced wear and tear on motorcycles, resulting in lower maintenance costs and easier movement for commuters.
Residents across the LGA say the ongoing transformation reflects the dividends of responsive leadership and grassroots governance, expressing optimism that the projects will further boost economic growth, improve living standards and position Ekwusigo as a model of sustainable development in Anambra State.
Ngozi Okoli is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
