In alignment with Dr. Peter Mba's vision for universal access to quality education and healthcare in Enugu State, the Executive Chairman of Uzo-Uwani Local Government, Hon. Chijioke Joseph Ezugwu, conducted a pivotal site visit to Nimbo Ward 2 on 25th October 2024. The purpose of the visit was twofold: to inspect progress on the construction of a cutting-edge "smart" green school and to settle a dispute over the location of a new Type 2 hospital for the community. This endeavor underscores the state administration's commitment to empowering communities with sustainable infrastructure.
During his inspection, Hon. Ezugwu, who was accompanied by notable figures, including Prince Emeka Orokoh, former Secretary of Uzo-Uwani LGA; Hon. Felix Ozota, former councillor for Nrobo Ward; Hon. Nwokolo Emmanuel, councillor for Nimbo Ward 2; and other key community stakeholders, met with contractors to assess the school’s construction progress. He expressed satisfaction with the development pace but urged contractors to expedite the work to ensure the project’s timely completion. The new green school is designed to incorporate smart learning solutions, aligning with the Enugu State government’s educational reform agenda.
In addition to the school inspection, Hon. Ezugwu addressed a community-led dispute regarding the hospital’s proposed location. Three potential sites were presented by local leaders, each representing a different segment of the community eager to support the development project.
The Ekwulu clan from Ejona, a major sub-group in the area, expressed their willingness to donate land and even proposed demolishing an existing clan-owned structure to accommodate the hospital. This enthusiasm was shared by various other stakeholders who offered their support for the project.
The second proposed site, in Ogbala Umuomeh, was advocated by Chief Michael Utazi, the community’s elder spokesperson, with backing from Dr. George Ajogwu and other leaders. Chief Utazi highlighted the availability of a sizeable land area encompassing the villages of Unasi, Umuomeh, and neighboring communities. This proposal was marked by community members' commitment to ensuring the success of the project.
The final location, Akautala Nimbo, was put forth by Chief Benedict Ayogu, Chairman of the Cultural Committee of Akautala, who emphasized the area's infrastructural readiness and community support for the development. Dr. Ajogwu, supporting this site, reiterated the community’s willingness to defer to the government’s decision for the final location, showing a unified resolve toward progress.
After thorough deliberation and consultation with the community, Chairman Ezugwu outlined the Enugu State government's key criteria for selecting infrastructure sites, which include proximity to central areas, security considerations, and accessibility for residents. He announced that Ogbala Umuomeh met all these requirements most effectively and would thus be recommended as the primary location for the new Type 2 hospital. This decision underscores a transparent, criteria-driven approach to infrastructure development.
Concluding the visit, Engr. Markson Utazi and Dr. George Ajogwu expressed heartfelt gratitude to Chairman Ezugwu for his inclusive and transparent leadership approach. They commended his commitment to rural development and his availability to engage with the community’s aspirations and concerns. Engr. Utazi remarked that this endeavor, with its smart school and healthcare components, is a much-anticipated milestone in the community’s development journey.
The Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area's proactive stance on education and healthcare aligns seamlessly with Enugu State’s broader goals of transforming rural communities. The resolution of the infrastructure dispute and the advancement of these facilities represent tangible steps forward in achieving equitable access to essential services.
Kingsley A. Onyeji
Chief Media Aide to the Executive Chairman of Uzo-Uwani L.G.A
