By Juliana Nwachukwu
A new era of administration has begun in Onitsha South Local Government Area following the formal celebration of Mrs. Ebere Ezechukwu’s appointment as Head of Local Government Administration (HLGA), a position she officially assumed on May 6, 2026.
The colourful event, held on June 2 at the council secretariat, commenced with a Holy Mass officiated by Rev. Fr. James Obinwanne of St. Dominic Parish, Fegge, Onitsha. The ceremony attracted top government officials, former administrators, political leaders, council staff, and well-wishers.
Speaking shortly after the celebration, Mrs. Ezechukwu pledged to promote transparency, accountability, efficiency, and teamwork in the administration of the council.
According to her, staff development and welfare will remain a top priority. She stressed the need for continuous learning, dedication to duty, and cooperation among departments, noting that a motivated workforce is essential for effective service delivery.
“I will encourage continuous learning, dedication to duty, and cooperation among all departments. When staff members are motivated and adequately supported, they perform their duties more efficiently and effectively,” she stated.
The new HLGA outlined her key priorities to include staff welfare and capacity building, effective communication and teamwork, innovation and transparency, as well as improved service delivery across all departments of the local government. She assured workers that their constitutional welfare packages and entitlements would be protected.
Mrs. Ezechukwu expressed gratitude to God and appreciated the support of key stakeholders, including the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Barr. Vincent Ezeaka, the Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government, Hon. Chief Emeka Orji, the Deputy Mayor, Hon. Onyebuchi Obi, and former Heads of Local Government Administration under whom she served.
She acknowledged that their mentorship, leadership, and wealth of experience played significant roles in preparing her for the responsibilities of her new office and appealed for continued prayers and support.
Former HLGA of Onitsha South, Chief Richard Obi, who recently retired from service, described Ezechukwu as a visionary and humble administrator destined for greater accomplishments. He advised public office holders to use their positions to positively impact lives, noting that meaningful service leaves a lasting legacy.
Also speaking, a former HLGA, Lady Chika Vin Nwankwo, PhD, described the office as a position of enormous responsibility and trust. She urged the new administrative head to remain fair, avoid discrimination, and continuously update her knowledge to meet the demands of modern public administration.
Nwankwo praised Ezechukwu’s humility and diligence, noting that her emergence was a reflection of hard work and the support she received throughout her career.
Other dignitaries who spoke at the event included the Mayor of Onitsha South Local Government, former HLGA Evang. Osita Ifedimma, who retired in 2017, and the Chairperson of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Mrs. Ngozi Alaebo.
Among those in attendance were the Deputy Mayor, Hon. Onyebuchi Obi; Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Mrs. Regina Udeogalanya; Council Legal Adviser, Barr. Stanley Okafor; Local Government Secretary, Paul Onuachalla Esq.; Special Adviser to the Mayor on Political Matters, Comrade Dunu Chiadikobi; former President-General of Housing Estate, Afam Udeogalanya; councillors, supervisors, and members of staff.
The highlight of the celebration was a special prayer session for Mrs. Ezechukwu and the blessing of her office by Rev. Fr. James Obinwanne, who sprinkled holy water within and around the premises, invoking divine guidance and success upon the new administration.
Juliana is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
