
By Tony Ezike
The completion and official commissioning of the newly constructed Hospital Road Nri, in Anaocha council area of Anambra State on Monday April 1st, 2024 was yet another firm confirmation of Senator Uche Ekwunife’s unwavering commitment to community service and impactful leadership.

The event which took place at the Chief Kelvin Chiedozie Obiegbunam Close Nri was witnessed by prominent leaders of Nri Kingdom and elated community members who gathered to cheer up and celebrate the legendary lawmaker who’s leadership over the years has been characterized by laudable delivery of critical projects and crucial social schemes.

The immediate past President General of the community Chief Kelvin Chiedozie Obiegbunam (Oba Ochendo) in his remarks welcomed the Senator and her entourage, noting the importance of the road project. which he described as very special to the community.

Oba Ochendo further stated that enumerating the senator’s projects in the town was like counting the votes of a deserved winner in the presence of her constituents, considering that Ekwunife has done so much in terms of infrastructural development, among other significant interventions within the town and beyond.

In his reaction, Chief Martin Onuora (Ide) described Senator Uche Ekwunife as God sent. He called for prayers and massive support for the pragmatic Director General of South East Governors Forum, to enable her sustain her impressive development strides in Nri community.

Chief Felix Oli (Akulueuno) while expressing appreciation for the senator’s exceptional contributions stated that Ekwunife is a blessing from God, noting that she has never disappointed Nri people. He urged her to be steadfast because she is outstanding among all the lawmakers that have served Anambra Central senatorial district in the Red Chamber.

Chief Clem Ifezue (Ikechi) in his contributions noted that estimating Senator Uche Ekwunife’s achievements in Nri Kingdom will result to a situation whereby every street, every family and every village in the town would be thanking her in their separate ways. He hinted on the need for the community to show appreciation to Senator Uche Ekwunife in a special way for her visible landmark achievements.

The newly elected President General of Nri Town Union, Oba Chief Romanus Okafor made it clear that the good people of Nri do not know what the state of Nri roads and other essential facilities delivered in the area would look like without the efforts of Senator Uche Ekwunife. He assured her of more prayers and unalloyed support in all her endeavours going forward.

Recall that Ekwunife was previously conferred with the chieftaincy title of Anyanwu Nri; a decision which was entrenched in the constitution that no one else will be honoured with same title. The Nri Town Union and community leaders home and abroad had subsequently organized a grand reception for Senator Uche Ekwunife in the past as a means of appreciating her selfless efforts towards project delivery and human capital development in the area.

Addressing members of the community present, Ekwunife emphasized the importance of critical infrastructure and job creation as key to effective community development.
“I wish to express profound appreciation for your massive support over the years, which has contributed immensely towards my performance in the course of my eventful stewardship. My special appreciation goes to our revered Regent, admirable leaders, past and present Presidents General of Nri Town Union.

“Job creation is key to effective community development. It is difficult to open up any town without road construction and creating job opportunities. Once more jobs are created, young people would begin to support community projects, and the moment a road is done the value of properties within the area appreciates.
“The SHEDA office I attracted to this community for instance has commenced work officially, and it is one of the biggest projects attracted by me so far. A good number of unemployed people have become gainfully employed in this highly reputed federal government institution, thereby taking a lot of young people out of the streets.

“I sacrificed a lot to make the people comfortable and productive by ensuring adequate provision of enabling conditions for improved livelihood, while unlocking business opportunities through construction of markets. Quality education and healthcare facilities, credible Bills and motions, among other community driven initiatives are in the list of my favourite achievements as a lawmaker.
“I wish to congratulate the former PG Chief Kelvin Chiedozie (Oba Ochendo) for finishing very strong, while urging the new PG Oba Chief Romanus Okafor to do better. You are getting no fewer than three roads and other critical interventions from me this year 2024. I have equally facilitated employment for hundreds of unemployed persons, most of whom have already collected their appointment letters from notable federal government institutions”, she said.

At that point Senator Ekwunife was honoured with a standing ovation by the leaders and entire members of the community present, as cheers, heartening remarks of admiration and joyous celebration engulfed the the project site.