Ekwusigo Leading With Innovation And Action — Mayor Chimezie Obi Speaks on Projects, Security, And Youth Empowerment
Since assuming office, Hon. Chimezie Obi, Mayor of Ekwusigo Local Government Area in Anambra State, has rolled out a wave of developmental projects that have transformed the face of the LGA. From digital security systems to youth empowerment initiatives, his administration has been lauded as one of the most action-driven at the grassroots level.
In this interview with Echezona Okafor, Hon. Obi speaks on his achievements, priorities, and his philosophy of “doing more with less.”
Q: What are some of the key projects your administration has executed in Ekwusigo so far?
Hon. Chimezie Obi:
We have focused on tangible development that directly impacts the people. First, we rehabilitated several boreholes across the LGA to ensure access to clean water. We also installed a 15KVA solar power system at the Local Government Secretariat, and today, there is steady electricity in the area.
In addition, we are installing CCTV cameras, street light across all four communities Ozubulu, Oraifite, Ihembosi, and Ichi to improve security. In total, over 400 cameras and street light are being mounted to enhance surveillance to protect lives and property in those areas.
This digital security initiative is the first of its kind in Anambra State. No other local government has attempted such a comprehensive surveillance project.
We have also rehabilitated Akwa Community Primary School in Ozubulu, and construction is ongoing on a 3-kilometre road linking Ozubulu to Ihembosi, a very strategic route. The road will be completed and commissioned before the end of the year, complete with drainage.
Our Legislative Building for councilors has been renovated and is ready for commissioning, while our new multipurpose hall, which can seat up to 4,000 people, is now one of the best facilities in any local government in Anambra.
When we assumed office, the LGA was unkempt and disorganized. Today, we have restructured it completely. In less than two years, we’ve delivered visible, measurable progress ,because seeing is believing and Anambra is on rising.
Q: What about roads? How much progress has been made in that area?
Hon. Chimezie Obi:
We have opened, graded, and sand-filled several roads across the LGA, especially in Ozubulu. The 3-kilometre Ozubulu–Ihembosi road remains our flagship project because of its economic importance to the people. But beyond that, many rural access roads are being improved to make transportation easier for farmers, traders, and residents. A lot is going on simultaneously.
Q: Youth empowerment seems to be a major part of your administration’s focus. What have you done for young people?
Hon. Chimezie Obi:
That’s true. I believe the youth are the backbone of any society. Before the Anambra State Government launched the “One Youth, Two Skills” initiative, we had already established the Ekwusigo Solution Center in Ihembosi.
At this center, we train young men and women in several skills — tailoring, cyber security, CCTV installation, and digital technology. So far, we have trained and empowered over 500 youths across the LGA.
During the commissioning, the Commissioner for Youth and Empowerment visited the center, saw what we were doing, and promised to partner with UNIZIK Business School to further train our beneficiaries in entrepreneurship.
The impact has been huge — the program has produced new business owners and even millionaires. The people of Ekwusigo have seen that empowerment is not just about handouts; it’s about giving people skills that can transform their lives.
Q: Security challenges have affected many LGAs in Anambra. How has Ekwusigo managed to stay relatively safe?
Hon. Chimezie Obi:
Security is our number one priority. While some LGAs were attacked by non-state actors, we maintained calm in Ekwusigo through vigilance and community cooperation.
Our “See Something, Say Something” security policy has worked effectively. We created a local security outfit that works both behind the camera and behind the scenes to complement our surveillance system.
Through this proactive approach, we’ve driven away criminal elements and made our communities safe again.
Q: You often speak about innovation and enterprise. What message do you have for the youths and the people of Ekwusigo?
Hon. Chimezie Obi:
The Igbo people are known for creativity, innovation, and self-reliance. You can’t talk about ako (wisdom) without talking about uche (understanding). These values have sustained us as a people.
The essence of life is enterprise, and hard work remains the key. I urge our youths to believe in themselves, to develop the “I can” spirit. As the world changes, we must change with it — with innovation, discipline, and purpose.
Q: What would you say is the secret behind your administration’s success so far?
Hon. Chimezie Obi:
Simplicity, focus, and integrity. My guiding principle is to do more with less. Every kobo of government funds must be used for government projects. That is how we’ve achieved so much in a short time.
To the best of my knowledge, I am yet to see any LGA chairman who has done a 3-kilometre road, installed over 400 CCTV cameras, with Street Light and delivered the kind of youth empowerment programs we have in Ekwusigo — all within two years.
We believe in action, not noise. Our results speak for us.