Udenu Local Government Area, Enugu State is abuzz with optimism as the newly sworn-in Chairman, Akachukwu Eze Akachukwu, embarks on a four-year journey to steer the affairs of the council area towards progress and prosperity. Elected with a resounding mandate on September 21st, 2024, Akachukwu's victory reflects the trust and confidence placed in his person, leadership and his demonstrated commitment to the development of Udenu over the years.
His campaign, characterized by issue-based discussions and a clear articulation of his vision, appealed and sunk deeply with a resonating depth among the people. With the swearing - in of the elected 17 local government Chairmen in the state fully consummated, the focus now shifts to the tangible realization of these promises, with infrastructure development emerging as a cornerstone of his administration. This is not in isolation of human capital development, good governance and sundry service delivery.
Revitalizing essential infrastructure for a brighter tuture is cardinal in jump-starting the development of the council area. Akachukwu's agenda prioritizes key infrastructure projects designed to elevate the quality of life for all residents. These include the resuscitation of the Greater Udunedem Water Scheme. Addressing this critical need for clean water is paramount. The Chairman has already initiated consultations with relevant stakeholders, including the State water corporation, Enruwasa, W.A.S.H programme and private sector partners, to expedite the resuscitation of this vital water scheme. This initiative promises to significantly improve public health and overall well-being in Obollo Afor, Amalla, Umundu, Igugu, Ezimo, Imilike, Orba and other communities previously served by the scheme.
In addition to this will be the reactivation of the water borehole situate inside the local government Secretariat with a view to making it functional and accessible to people within the vicinity as well as commercial water vendors. This will in the overall impact positively on the plan of the Chairman to end the concerns about potable water supply across Udenu.
One other area the administration is set to focus on is expanding and stabilizing electricity power supply. Recognizing the crucial role of reliable electricity power supply in powering businesses and homes, schools etc, the Chairman will prioritize addressing the challenge of irregular power supply in Udenu. Even prior to his election, he has proactively engaged with authorities at the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to explore solutions, including supporting communities in optimizing their billing systems and advocating for direct interventions to minimize disruptions.
One cannot discountenance the enhancement of connectivity through strategic road construction as crucial to ease of movement and exponential economic growth. Improving road networks is crucial for connecting communities, facilitating trade, and improving access to essential services. The Chairman has outlined plans to prioritize the construction of the Amutenyi Obollo Eke- Okpakerekere- Umuitodo- Amalla- Ogwu Obollo Afor road, a vital artery that has been a barrier to economic activity in the affected communities. He has committed to fulfilling all counterpart funding obligations to ensure the timely completion of this project, leveraging the State Government's 10km road per ward programme. Additionally, the construction of the Umuokara- Owere Ezeorba -UNN Road will enhance connectivity to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, fostering educational and economic opportunities.
The Chairman has further highlighted that expanding of market infrastructure for economic growth is another area of strategic focus in his administration. Recognizing the limitations of existing market spaces, the Chairman has marked as priority the expansion of both Orie Orba and Ahor Obollo Markets. Here he will actively engage with community leaders to secure land for the much needed expansion, aimed at stimulating economic growth, create employment opportunities, and provide residents with access to a wider range of goods and services.
It is therefore axiomatic to say that the coming of Akachukwu Eze Akachukwu as the Chairman of Udenu Local Government Council is indeed a flagship for a brighter future. Truly, Akachukwu's focus on infrastructure development is not merely about concrete and steel; it represents a commitment to improving the lives of the people of Udenu. So by prioritizing these projects, he aims to create a more prosperous, connected, and sustainable future for all. The enthusiasm throughout Udenu testifies to a purposeful belief that under his leadership, our local government is indeed "in touch with tomorrow."
Onyekachi is a social and political commentator and writes from Trans Ekulu, Enugu
