The Enugu State Ministry for local government, rural development and chieftaincy affairs says its vision is to facilitate the evolution of communities from the limiting shackles of clannishness and class stratifications to organised units of modern communities, well positioned to function as indispensable development partners in governor Peter Mbah’s quest to transform the capital of the Eastern region.
Its’ Commissioner, deacon Okey Ogbodo made this known while addressing a gathering of Town Union Presidents in a capacity building workshop organised for town unions in the state.
The Commissioner noted that before the advent of modern governance, Town Unions and community organisations were the first planners, the first builders, and the first mobilizers that carried on their shoulders the dreams of their people, and the aspirations of the whole community.
“The Town Union is not a recent invention. It is part of the Igbo spirit of collective responsibility of…Onye aghana nwanne ya…that no one should be left behind. It represents that age old saying that every hand must be on deck for the good of all
“As society evolves and governance becomes more complex, the role of Town Unions must also evolve. It is therefore time to position these institutions, not as spectators, not as critics, but as true partners and agents of the State Government’s development agenda”. Ogbodo stated.
Deacon Ogbodo reminded the gathering that under governor Peter Mbah, Enugu State is charting a new course- a course defined by “Disruptive Innovation, Efficiency and Excellence”.
“A course that seeks to make Enugu, one of the most competitive subnational economies in Nigeria. A course that is anchored on eradication of poverty, expansion and modernization of Infrastructure and inclusive community development.
“This vision requires the active participation of our people through our Town Unions, our traditional institutions our youth and our women groups. It requires synergy among all stakeholders both in government and outside the government. It is part of the process of building that synergy, that made us gather here today”. He said.
The Commissioner made it clear that Town Unions are agents of development and must know the development direction of the government and key into it.
“Our community development plans should align with the proad development direction of the State
“Second, by becoming the voice and eyes of government in the grass roots, Town Unions should help government to communicate its policies and mobilise the people and provide feedback
“Third, by embracing partnership and collaborations with the government, the private sector and your kith and kin in the diaspora
“Fourth, by ensuring transparency and accountability in all dealings, a leadership is not only a priviledge but also a trust. All funds and resource entrusted to Town Unions must be managed with honesty, openness an fairness
“Finally, by promoting peace and unity in every community. meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of division conflict. When peace reigns, development follows. Ogbodo reiterated.
The Commissioner made it crystal clear that the Ministry is taking bold steps to strengthen the new partnership being forged with the town unions as it will help for the review of the Enugu State Town Union Constitution and Guidelines, (2005), to bring them in line with modern realities and current development outlook.
“We will look into the establishment of Community Develop Coordination Desk and Digital Registry to track all community development efforts through the Town Unions and to create sear communication with both the Local and State Governments for coordination and record keeping
“We will also encourage and do more workshops like this to build the capacity of our Presidents-Generals and community leaders, as good governance begins with good leadership”. He said
Deacon Ogbodo assure that Government through the Ministry, will continue to support Town Unions, not just with policy but with partnership, training and engagement, such as this workshop.
“Dear Presidents-General, your role is both a sacred and a temporal duty as you are not just community leaders, but are also development ambassadors of the State Government. You are the ones who carry Government’s vision to the people and the people’s aspirations back to Government
“We expect you to lead with integrity and humility as you promote peace and inclusion. Your loyalty is to your people and to the progress of Enugu State”. Ogbodo stated.
Earlier in an address, the Chairman, Enugu State Council of President Generals, Arinze Nnia Ogbodo said that Peter Mbah has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the development of Enugu State through innovative initiatives and programs.
“His vision for a prosperous Enugu State is evident in the various projects and policies he has launched since assuming office. Effective communication is key to the success of these initiatives, and this workshop provides a platform for our President-Generals to engage with government policies and programs
“As leaders of our various town unions, your role in mobilizing and sensitizing our communities cannot be overstated. Your presence here today represents the collective interest of our people, and I urge you to take full advantage of this opportunity to acquire knowledge and insights that will enhance your service to our communities”. He said.
He express profound gratitude to the Honorable Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Affairs, Deacon Okey Ogbodo for his unwavering support and guidance.
Meanwhile he reaffirm total support, loyalty, and solidarity of all Town Unions Presidents to His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for taking a bold decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“We commend his vision for the state and his commitment to the development of Enugu State. We assure him that we will work tirelessly to mobilize our communities and support his policies and programs”. He stated.
He however appealed to governor Mbah to consider the welfare and the stipend upgrade he promised during his campaign as they are still hoping and believing that he will fulfill this promise for the entire President-Generals in Enugu State.
