by George Ozalla
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has commissioned the 1.2-kilometre Nzegwu Okoye Road in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area, a project entirely funded and executed by the traditional ruler of Umueri, Igwe Ben Emeka, under the state’s Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) initiative.
The commissioning ceremony drew community leaders, residents, and state officials, highlighting a growing collaboration between government, traditional institutions, and citizens in advancing local infrastructure. Governor Soludo described the project as a model for sustainable development, stressing that the prestige of public service is measured not by titles but by the tangible impact on communities.
“This road exemplifies the Anambra Spirit, where individuals take ownership of their environment rather than waiting solely for government intervention,” the Governor said. “When citizens step up to serve, development becomes not only government-owned but people-owned.”
Governor Soludo used the occasion to encourage further private and community investment in public infrastructure. He reiterated his pledge to personally commission projects initiated by citizens or groups committed to community advancement, stating, “Once you build it, I’ll come and commission it.”
The Governor also challenged the state’s wealthy elite to redirect their contributions from ceremonial displays of wealth to meaningful investments that benefit society. He emphasized that community-led initiatives like Igwe Emeka’s are essential for building a culture of collective responsibility and participatory governance.
Igwe Ben Emeka, who personally funded the Nzegwu Okoye Road, said the project would improve mobility, facilitate commerce, and enhance overall community life. He expressed appreciation to the Governor for attending the commissioning and reiterated his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote social and economic development in Umueri.
Residents who spoke during the ceremony commended the partnership, noting that the road would significantly reduce travel time, boost local trade, and improve access to schools, health facilities, and markets.
The Nzegwu Okoye Road project represents a strategic step in Governor Soludo’s PPCP framework, which encourages collaboration between government, private citizens, and community institutions to accelerate development, promote local ownership, and ensure that infrastructure projects address the immediate needs of residents.
