By Nkechinyere Ewa-Okpara
The Chairman of Abakaliki Local Government Area, Mr. Ebere Nwogba, has lauded the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for spearheading extensive infrastructure and human capital development projects across the state without resorting to loans.
Speaking during a media interaction with journalists in Abakaliki on Monday, Nwogba described Governor Nwifuru as a “frugal and visionary leader” who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to people-focused governance ( the people’s charter of needs).
He said, “In this economy, where ₦100,000 can barely purchase anything in the market, Governor Nwifuru has managed the state’s resources with uncommon wisdom. He has not borrowed from any bank local or international yet the volume of developmental projects across the state is overwhelming,” he stated.
Nwogba cited the construction of over 1,000 kilometres of roads, the ongoing Vanco Flyover project, the remodelling of Abakaliki capital city, and the clearing of pension and gratuity arrears as some of the governor’s notable achievements. He described the administration’s ability to deliver such milestones without accruing debt as a testament to its financial discipline.
He further praised the governor’s modest and result-driven approach to leadership. “While others spend more on commissioning ceremonies than on the actual projects, our governor delivers silently but effectively,” Nwogba noted.
Reflecting on the state’s developmental trajectory, Nwogba acknowledged the foundational contributions of past leaders: Dr. Sam Egwu’s prioritisation of education, Chief Martin Elechi’s rural development and unity bridges, and Engr. Dave Umahi’s transformation of the state into a construction hub. He maintained that Governor Nwifuru is building on that legacy with a stronger emphasis on human capital development and inclusive governance.
On his stewardship at the local government level, Nwogba highlighted several impactful initiatives, including: Empowerment programmes, Scholarship and bursary awards, Support for farm inputs and medical bills, Rural road construction and the building of bridges, Installation of motorised boreholes and solar-powered streetlights, Timely salary payments, Distribution motorcycles, Provision of grants and business incentives to residents.
He also emphasised his administration’s proactive conflict resolution efforts across communities in the council area.
When asked if he was satisfied with his performance, Nwogba replied confidently: “I have served my people well. I know where we were and where we are today. There is always room for improvement, but I believe the next chairman will do even better.”
He further commended the governor’s youth-inclusive policies, noting that the engagement of young people in both state and local government structures has helped reduce crime and boost productivity.
“The moment you empower youths, you’re creating jobs, reducing insecurity, and stimulating economic growth. When people are busy with meaningful jobs or businesses, they don’t resort to crime,” he said.
As his tenure continues, Nwogba assured the people of Abakaliki LGA of his continued dedication to delivering the dividends of democracy, pledging to sustain impactful governance until his last day in office.