On the occasion of Nigeria’s Independence Day, the Executive Mayor of Isuikwuato Local Government Area, Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, has called on citizens to reflect on their civic responsibilities and partner with the government to drive sustainable, long-term development.
In his address to the people of Isuikwuato at home and in the diaspora, the Mayor emphasized that independence must be measured by the productive use of freedom and opportunities. Highlighting his administration’s two-year track record, Hon. Ekeke noted a deliberate pivot away from political promises toward practical, people-oriented governance.
Advancing Infrastructure and Commerce
Outlining the administration’s recent infrastructural milestones, the Mayor reported the successful installation and handover of 20 solar-powered boreholes with elevated stanchions across various communities, many of which had historically lacked government intervention. He highlighted that these projects have drastically improved daily life, saving women from long, unsafe treks for water and affording children more time for educational activities.
To further boost local commerce, the administration has commenced the construction of modern evening markets in four locations across the LGA. These markets are designed to provide safer and more functional trading spaces for the women who sustain the local economy.
Hon. Ekeke also detailed the extensive rehabilitation of public infrastructure, including the ongoing transformation of the Local Government Council Headquarters. This involves a new Administrative Complex, a Council Gate, and the remodeling of the Legislative Chambers, Health building, and other critical offices. Additionally, the government has completed the Aminu Sani Corps Members’ Lodge and reconstructed vital bridges in Achara and Nvurunvu in the Uturu axis.
Revitalizing Agriculture for Economic Growth
Reaffirming agriculture as a central pillar of Isuikwuato’s economic strategy, the Mayor celebrated the success of the 50-hectare cassava cluster spanning the LGA’s ten wards. He announced that the administration is now transitioning to the processing phase, taking steps to acquire necessary machinery to add value to raw agricultural outputs.
Alongside this, the construction of a modern pig farm has commenced, a move aimed at generating revenue, creating employment for the youth, and building a self-sustaining local economy.
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Inclusive Governance and Civic Duty
Hon. Ekeke underscored his administration’s commitment to inclusive leadership, pointing to the deliberate appointment of women to key roles, including the Chief of Staff and Supervisors for Agriculture, Health, and Education. He stressed that women must be active decision-makers in the region’s development, not merely beneficiaries.
Addressing traditional rulers, town unions, the business community, and everyday citizens, the Mayor issued a strong call for collaborative development. He emphasized that while the government is responsible for building infrastructure—such as boreholes, markets, and roads—it is the duty of the citizens to protect and maintain them.
A Vision for the Future
In his closing remarks, Hon. Ekeke expressed his gratitude to the people of Isuikwuato for their patience and support. He also extended his appreciation to His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, acknowledging the Governor’s role in providing an enabling environment for Local Governments to effectively deliver dividends of democracy at the grassroots level.
Urging citizens to move beyond complaints and contribute to local progress, the Mayor concluded with a call to action: to demand accountability, embrace civic responsibility, and collectively build an Isuikwuato that future generations will be grateful to inherit.
