Njaba Agog as Council Chairman Etiokwe Records Milestones, Honours Uzodimma with Chieftaincy Title
…As Oruh commissions ultra-modern traditional rulers’/chairman’s complex
By Anselem Anokwute
Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State came alive on Saturday as traditional rulers, political leaders and residents under the aegis of Njaba Unity Forum celebrated what they described as remarkable achievements of the council Chairman, Hon. Vitalis Ugochukwu Obi Etiokwe, since his assumption of office in 2024.
The event, which attracted a large crowd, began with a thanksgiving service at Nnenasa Council Chapel before proceeding to the Mini Stadium, where dignitaries and community members gathered to honour the Chairman’s developmental strides, particularly in security and infrastructure.
Speakers at the event commended Etiokwe for what they termed a “drastic turnaround” in the council, citing improved protection of lives and property, visible infrastructural development, and an inclusive leadership style.
A major highlight of the occasion was the commissioning of an ultra-modern office complex, which houses the traditional rulers’ secretariat on the ground floor and the chairman’s executive offices on the upper floor. The facility, complemented by well-designed access roads and walkways, is expected to enhance administrative efficiency and improve the council’s outlook.
In recognition of his support for grassroots development, the traditional rulers conferred a chieftaincy title, “Onwa Oyoko Njaba Dum,” on the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma. The insignia of the title was presented to the Commissioner for Rural Development and Empowerment, Hon. Ifeanyi Oruh, in collaboration with the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftains Affairs, Chief Mrs. Rubby Emele.
The conferment ceremony was led by the Chairman of the Njaba Traditional Rulers Council and Obi of Nkume, HRH Eze Anthony Onyeaka, alongside other monarchs, including the Obi of Okwudor, HRH Eze Barr. Chidi Ben Onuora.
Speaking at the event, the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, alongside the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Amarachi Iwuanyanwu, and Majority Leader, Hon. Kanayo Onyemaechi, described the developments in Njaba as evidence of the state government’s commitment to grassroots transformation. They also commended the people for supporting the chairman.
The Ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including government officials, technocrats, community leaders and political stakeholders from across the state. Among them were the Special Adviser on Monitoring and Compliance, Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, Vice-Chancellor of Imo State University, Prof. Chukwumaeze Uchefula,(SAN) who chaired the occasion; Prof. Uba Nnabue; Ichie Peter Okorocha, Engr. Chinedu Onyejelem and many others.
Others in attendance included members of the Imo State House of Assembly and former lawmakers, as well as the member representing the federal constituency, Hon. Harrison Anozie Nwadike, Rt. Hon. Ugonna Ozuruigbo
The event also featured colourful cultural displays, including masquerades, traditional dances and musical performances, reflecting the rich heritage of the Njaba people.
In his remarks, Chief Vitalis Ugochukwu Obi Etiokwe expressed gratitude to the people for their support, noting that the projects were driven by his desire to make a lasting impact on the council.
“I consider this a personal responsibility. Njaba is my home, and I am committed to making it better with the opportunity given to me,” he said.
He urged residents to make proper use of public facilities to ensure their maintenance and longevity.
Observers noted that the developments in Njaba could serve as a model for grassroots governance, emphasising the importance of purposeful leadership and accountability in public office as a one center City with global mapping system making business and easy taste of life available.