The Mayor of Umunneochi Local Government Area, Chief Sunny Afurobi, has applauded the people of Umunneochi for their impressive turnout at a one-day seminar titled “Changing the Narrative in the Local Government Areas for Good Governance,” organized by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Umuahia, Abia State, describing the event as a success, and noting that it has achieved its goal of deepening grassroots participation in governance.
Addressing an audience that included serving councillors, traditional rulers and Ndi Ichie, party chieftains, Abia Arise leaders, and other community stakeholders such as town union, religious, women, and youth leaders, the Mayor praised the initiative for keeping people at the grassroots abreast of government programmes and their responsibilities as citizens.
Held at the Umunneochi Local Government Council Hall, the seminar was lauded by Mayor Afurobi as “timely and purpose-driven,” and commended the Focal Person and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Mrs. Magdalene Ugoañusi, and her team for bringing governance closer to the people and highlighting the achievements of the present administration across various sectors.
Chief Afurobi singled out Governor Alex Chioma Otti for what he described as “a positive shift in the narrative of governance in Abia State,” noting that the “New Abia” being driven by the Labour Party-led administration has “restored the pride and dignity of the state,” with Abians now expressing renewed confidence due to visible developmental strides.
He added, “Abia would have achieved greater development strides earlier if a solid foundation had been laid by previous administrations,” while praising the “administrative ingenuity of Governor Alex Otti,” which he said has made present successes possible.
The Council Boss further appreciated Governor Otti for tangible developments in Umunneochi, including security improvements, healthcare delivery, educational advancement, and road construction.
While affirming that the people of Umunneochi are satisfied with the governor’s performance and pledging that they would “reciprocate the governor’s kind gestures in the 2027 general elections,” he also urged residents who have not collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to do so in readiness to support the Labour Party and its candidates.
Recounting his administration’s achievements in Umunneochi, Chief Afurobi said he is “replicating the developmental strides of Governor Otti” at the local level. Key accomplishments include the 360-degree rehabilitation of the council headquarters, installation of 24-hour solar lighting, provision of Starlink Internet services, and modern office furniture, which he said have enhanced staff punctuality and productivity.
He also mentioned other projects such as construction of bridges and culverts across communities, infrastructure support for military operational bases at Umuaku and Ndiawa, community street lighting, market development, agricultural revitalisation, rural road grading and maintenance, and seasonal clearing of road shoulders.
According to him, “All 11 wards in the local government area have felt the impact of good governance, while efforts are underway to ensure the remaining ward will sing a new song.” He assured that his administration remains open to new ideas that would enhance performance.
Earlier, the Chief Focal Person and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Magdalene Ugoañusi, stressed that local governments are the “closest tier of government to the people” and require effective administration through stakeholder collaboration.
She emphasised that “change is not theoretical but visible,” citing the administration’s progress in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. For true transformation, she said, “accountability must become a culture, participation a strength, and integrity an identity.”
In their separate remarks, Rt. Hon. Mathias Ume (Nwachi), Member representing Umunneochi in the Abia State House of Assembly and Deputy Majority Leader; Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Azodo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health; Dr. Oluebube Chukwu, Senior Special Assistant on Due Process; Surveyor Ike Orika, representative of Umunneochi in GODA; and Dr. Lady Grace Ibe, Member of the Abia State House of Assembly Service Commission, all commended Governor Otti’s achievements.
They noted that “even the visually impaired can now perceive the impact of governance at the grassroots,” adding that Umunneochi has “never experienced such development strides.”
They further praised the Governor for approving the construction of a General Hospital at Amuda and his pledge to build the Mmam Bridge, describing these as “people-oriented projects.” They also reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative governance for greater progress.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, Eze Ernest Onwuka commended Governor Otti’s “people-oriented leadership which has defied all odds to get things done rightly,” describing him as “a blessing to Abia State.” He expressed gratitude for the increase in traditional rulers’ monthly allowances, which he said has improved their welfare, and pledged continued royal support.
In a vote of thanks, Dr. Jude Onwuahanze, Chairman of the Labour Party in Umunneochi, described the seminar as “a step in the right direction that has yielded the desired fruits,” urging for its continuity. He also appreciated Mayor Afurobi for “always playing the role of a good father to all.”
The well-attended event featured presentations by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hon. Mathilda Anyamele, and the Special Adviser on Digital Economy, Hon. Elizabeth Chijioke, alongside numerous stakeholders from across the local government.
