By Douglas Princemola
The Executive Chairman of Onuimo Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Emeka Paul Obi, has once again demonstrated his commitment to grassroots development by celebrating his 2025 birthday in a unique way. Instead of the usual fanfare that often characterizes such occasions, the Onuimo council boss turned his personal celebration into a day of service, embarking on a tour of rural health centres and the newly approved Federal University of Okigwe in Umuna.
On his itinerary were Umuoko Primary Health Centre Okwelle, Okwelle Health Centre Umuagwo Okwelle, and Okai Umuna Health Centre. These unscheduled visits offered him firsthand knowledge of the challenges facing healthcare delivery in Onuimo. Officers in Charge of the facilities expressed both gratitude and concern. While they commended the chairman for coming to see things for himself, they also highlighted pressing problems such as inadequate medical equipment, lack of diagnostic tools, and poor infrastructure.
At Okai Umuna Health Centre, Mrs. Adamma Njoku spoke frankly about the visible structural dilapidation and appealed for urgent intervention. Dr. Obi responded by assuring the workers and the community of immediate steps to address their concerns. He pledged to facilitate the supply of essential medical instruments, upgrade infrastructure, and create improved working conditions for health professionals across the LGA.
The tour also took Dr. Obi and members of his entourage to the permanent site of the Federal University of Okigwe in Umuna, recently approved by the Federal Government. Describing the institution as a significant achievement for the Okigwe Zone and the entire state, the chairman emphasized the importance of education in regional development. He further promised that his administration would work to ensure the security of the university and its host community, laying the groundwork for sustainable growth.
The event was more than just a birthday. It became a statement of purpose and an extension of governance. Members of the Onuimo Legislative Council accompanied the chairman, among them Rt. Hon. Andy Maduako, Leader of Council; Hon. Agusi Nnedimma, Deputy Leader; Hon. Sunnyken Okoroike, Majority Leader; Hon. Nnadi Chiedozie, Chief Whip; as well as councillors representing the ten INEC wards. The Council Vice Chairman, Hon. Mazi Kelechi Eugene Ibegbu, was also in attendance.
In addition to the official tours, there were moments of celebration. The cutting of the birthday cake symbolized joy, while the Umuna Youth Assembly, led by its President, Hon. Engr. Vitalis Obi, presented a portrait of the chairman as a token of honour and respect. Prayers were also offered for his long life, good health, and continued success in leadership.
Community observers have described Dr. Obi’s decision to dedicate his birthday to service as a refreshing example of people-centred leadership. In an era when political celebrations often showcase extravagance, his approach stood out as one that prioritized the needs of the grassroots over personal comfort.
For the people of Onuimo, the 2025 birthday of their council chairman will be remembered not just as a personal celebration but as a day when healthcare concerns were acknowledged, educational aspirations were highlighted, and the promise of a better future was reinforced.
