By Douglas Princemola
The Concerned Citizens of Egbuoma Ancient Kingdom in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State have commended the Honourable Commissioner for Niger Delta Affairs and Intelligence, Hon. Dr. Henry Okafor, for his leadership, commitment to community development, and dedication to the welfare of the people of the Niger Delta.
The commendation was made during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, when a delegation of community leaders and stakeholders presented an address expressing appreciation for the developmental efforts of the Imo State Government while also drawing attention to important needs requiring government intervention.
The delegation noted that one of the most remarkable achievements credited to the Commissioner was his role in ensuring that Egbuoma gained official recognition among the oil-producing communities in Imo State. According to the group, the recognition marks a major milestone in the history of the ancient kingdom and has renewed hope among the people, who believe it will create greater opportunities for development, fairness, and inclusion.
The community leaders stated that the recognition has strengthened the confidence of the people in government and assured them that their long-standing aspirations are receiving the attention they deserve. They described the development as a clear demonstration that responsive leadership can positively transform communities and restore public trust.
The delegation also applauded the recent security initiatives introduced in Egbuoma, noting that the measures have greatly improved peace and reduced insecurity within the community. They observed that residents now carry out their daily activities with greater confidence and expressed optimism that continued cooperation between government and local communities would further improve security across the area.
The group also expressed appreciation to the Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, for the developmental strides recorded under the 3R Agenda of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Recovery. They noted that the administration has continued to implement projects aimed at improving infrastructure and the quality of life of citizens across the state.
While commending the government for these achievements, the delegation appealed for greater inclusion of qualified sons and daughters of Egbuoma in the affairs of government. They stated that the community is blessed with highly educated, experienced, and competent professionals who possess the ability to contribute meaningfully to governance and public service.
According to the delegation, appointing qualified Egbuoma indigenes into strategic positions would not only recognize merit but would also promote fairness, encourage youth participation in governance, and increase the people’s confidence in the present administration.
The community also expressed concern over the poor condition of roads leading to and from Egbuoma. They explained that the deplorable state of the road network has continued to affect transportation, commercial activities, agricultural production, and access to healthcare and education. They appealed to the State Government, through the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and Intelligence, to facilitate the construction and rehabilitation of these roads to improve connectivity with neighbouring communities.
Attention was also drawn to the condition of public schools within the community. The delegation observed that many educational facilities require urgent renovation and upgrading to provide a more suitable environment for teaching and learning. They appealed for the rehabilitation of school buildings and the provision of modern educational facilities that would enable children in the community to compete favourably with their counterparts elsewhere in the state.
In addition to educational infrastructure, the community called for improvements in other essential social amenities, including healthcare facilities, potable water supply, and public infrastructure needed to support community development.
The delegation also highlighted the challenge of inadequate electricity supply, describing it as one of the major obstacles to economic growth and social development in Egbuoma. They observed that unstable power has affected businesses, discouraged investment, and limited opportunities for young entrepreneurs and artisans.
To complement the recent improvements in security, the community appealed for the installation of solar-powered street lights along major roads, markets, public institutions, and other strategic locations. They noted that adequate street lighting would further improve security, reduce criminal activities, encourage night-time commercial activities, and improve the overall appearance of the community.
The delegation assured the Commissioner that the people of Egbuoma remain peaceful, law-abiding, and ready to support government initiatives aimed at promoting development. They pledged to cooperate fully with the government in ensuring the successful execution and protection of projects located within the community.
The community leaders expressed confidence that the Commissioner would convey their requests to Governor Hope Uzodimma and recommend them for favourable consideration, given the importance of the proposed interventions to the social and economic wellbeing of the people.
The visit was led by Hon. Comrade Uche Chukwudi Aguiyinwanzedima and Hon. Nkeonye Victor Okeke Aguchiumu. Other members of the delegation included Nze Gregory Obi Nwapuruife, Chairman; Pastor Anthony Ononuju, Secretary; DSP (Rtd.) Linus Chinyerenwa; Engr. Comrade N. D. Okorie, Public Relations Officer; Ndinkora Ebele; Kelvin Nwaka; Samson Ijeoma; Ndubuisi Chibueze; Ikena Ndunka; Emmanuel Eziukwu; Titus Ihiezuo; Monday Ubanede; Odogwueirimara Obodo; Henry Iwuchukwu; Smart Nnaeto; Ndubuaku; Silver Uzokwe; Longinus Ejeawa; and other concerned citizens of Egbuoma Ancient Kingdom.
The courtesy visit demonstrated the commitment of the people of Egbuoma Ancient Kingdom to maintaining a constructive relationship with the Imo State Government and working together to promote peace, good governance, infrastructure development, and lasting progress in the community.
