By George Ozalla
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Pineleaf Estate Company Limited, Archbishop Joseph Onyeka Nzekwesi, has pledged the support of his company for the newly unveiled Man Power Development Company Limited (MPDCL), describing the initiative as a timely intervention that could help address Nigeria’s long-standing electricity challenges and stimulate industrial growth.
Nzekwesi made the commitment on Friday while speaking with journalists shortly after the Manufacturing Association of Nigeria (MAN) South-East Industrial Energy Solutions and Investment Symposium held at the Prof. Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre in Awka, Anambra State.
The symposium, organised by the Chairman of MAN South-East, Lady Ada Chukwudozie, featured the official unveiling of MPDCL, an initiative aimed at strengthening industrial energy solutions and attracting investments to the region.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Nzekwesi stated that dependable electricity supply is at the heart of economic development and remains one of the most important requirements for businesses, industries and residential communities. He stressed that Pineleaf Estate would immediately key into the initiative because uninterrupted power supply is essential to modern real estate development and the overall quality of life.
According to him, the country’s power sector has not received the level of attention it deserves over the years, a situation he said has continued to hinder economic growth and industrial expansion.
He explained that stable electricity supply supports healthcare delivery, improves educational services, strengthens communication systems, promotes business activities and enhances security in homes and communities.
The Pineleaf Estate boss maintained that electricity should not be seen as a luxury but as a basic necessity for every society that seeks sustainable growth and development.
He commended Lady Chukwudozie for championing the initiative, describing her as a visionary leader whose commitment to industrial development would bring lasting benefits to Anambra State and the South-East.
According to him, many people may not immediately appreciate the significance of the project, but its impact would become more evident as implementation progresses. He reiterated that Pineleaf Estate was ready to partner with MPDCL and contribute to the success of the initiative.
In a related development, Nzekwesi dismissed reports suggesting that he is nursing an ambition to contest the 2029 Anambra State governorship election.
He explained that as a clergyman, he believes his primary responsibility is to pray for leaders and support them to succeed in office rather than seek political power.
According to him, spiritual leaders are called to serve as kingmakers by providing moral guidance and prayers for those entrusted with the responsibility of governance.
Nzekwesi also expressed appreciation to God for the administration of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, stating that the governor has continued to record notable achievements in the development of Anambra State.
He further stated that his prayer is for every successive administration in the state to perform better than its predecessor so that the people will continue to enjoy steady progress and improved governance.
He expressed optimism that Anambra State would continue on the path of development and urged leaders at all levels to place the interests of the people above every other consideration.
