By Christian ABURIME
The twenty one newly-elected local government Mayors have been sworn-in.
They were sworn-in alongside the Deputy Mayors at the Executive Chambers, Government House, Awka where the state Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, engaged with them.
Chibueze Ofobuike (Aguata), Ifeanyi Chiweze (Anambra East), Fidelis Nnazo (Anambra West), Romanus Ibekwe (Anaocha), ThankGod Anago (Awka North), Chinedu Okafor (Awka South), and Alphonsus Ofumelu (Ayamelum), were sworn-in.
Others are Chijioke Ozumba (Dunukofia), Chimezie Obi (Ekwusigo), Stanley Nkwoka (Idemili North), Amaka Obi (Idemili South), Anayo Orjiako (Ihiala), Chinedu Ononiba (Njikoka), Echezona Anazodo (Nnewi North) and Chinedu Ezeogidi (Nnewi South).
Also sworn-in were Franklin Nwadialu (Ogbaru), Anthony Nwaora (Onitsha North), Emeka Orji (Onitsha South), Casmir Nwafor (Orumba North), Shedrack Azubuike (Orumba South) and Emma Nweke (Oyi).
Governor Soludo, who is known for his development-driven agenda, urged the Mayors to prioritize grassroots development during their tenure.
During the engagement, the Governor highlighted the critical role of the LGAs in promoting development at the grassroots. He urged the chairmen to see themselves as agents of positive change in their communities.
“Congratulations on your victory at the polls. Last Saturday, Anambra people spoke. It goes to say the confidence that they reposed on you under the platform of APGA.”
“You’ve transmitted from the realm of politics to governance.”
The Governor proposed a collaborative approach to development, where the state government works hand-in-hand with the LGAs to drive development initiatives.
“Welcome to project Anambra. Now, we get to full speed. Work collaboratively to advance the common good of the people because ultimately, we have one goal- the security and welfare of ndị Anambra.”
“As a team in project Anambra, we will not let the people down.”
“You are now sworn-in, show us what you can do. The clock just started ticking. I wish all of you a very successful tenure in office;” the Governor added.
He further advised the chairmen to prioritize youth empowerment programmes, given the high rate of youth unemployment in the state, emphasizing that youth development should be harnessed as a critical mechanism for eradicating poverty at the grassroots.
“Recall your oaths of allegiance and office. Take them as sacred paths. Always rehearse their meanings each day.”
“Serve the people selflessly, irrespective of any differences. Duty calls and you have raised your hands to answer to the call of duty. Get to your local government and play your part.”
“Peruse the laws of the land, especially that of Anambra state. The papers you have now are the proof that you are Mayors and Deputy Mayors”; he stated.
The Governor noted that his administration would provide ongoing support to the local government councils for the speedy implementation of development projects across the state.
On his part, the Mayor of Aguata Local Government Area, Dr. Chibuike Ofobuike thanked Professor Soludo for his leadership and his call for grassroots development and pledged the support of all the Local Government Mayors to work in unity with the state government to achieve development objectives.
In conclusion, Governor Soludo’s engagement with the newly sworn-in local government chairmen is a testament to his commitment to promoting development at the grassroots. His emphasis on youth empowerment, transparency, and accountability in public office reflects his desire to create a better Anambra State. It is hoped that the council chairmen would take heed to his wise counsel and work tirelessly to better the lives of the people they serve.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Head of Service, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Barr. Joachin Anaeto, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, other members of the State Executive Council including the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Mr. Tony Collins Nwabunwanne, among others.
