By Marvelous Ezenwa, Awka.
The Mayor of Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, Hon. Romanus Ibekwe, has launched a book titled “Building a Greater Anaocha” with a call for greater commitment to grassroots leadership, good governance and sustainable community development.
The book was unveiled at the Anambra Country Club, Awka, where government officials, political leaders, community stakeholders, academics, business leaders and other guests gathered to witness the event.
Speaking with journalists, Ibekwe, who authored the book, said he wrote it to provide a guide for young and emerging leaders and encourage them to understand the responsibilities that come with public service. He said the book also focuses on the need to identify and develop the talents of younger generations while promoting good governance at the grassroots.
According to him, his motivation came from the desire to make a meaningful impact at the grassroots, which he described as an important level of governance where leaders can directly understand the needs and challenges of their people. He stressed that progressive governance requires sacrifice, commitment and the ability to identify practical solutions to the challenges confronting different communities.
Ibekwe explained that “Building a Greater Anaocha” was written to share ideas and experiences that could help upcoming leaders make a positive difference in the lives of people at the grassroots. He expressed the hope that the book would remain useful to future generations as a reference point for leadership, community development and effective governance.
Chairman of the book launch and Chief Executive Officer of St. Cletus Healthcare Limited, Neni, Anaocha Local Government Area, Dr. Clement Obianodo, commended the initiative, saying the book provides useful insights into leadership and grassroots development. He noted that its message is consistent with the administration’s emphasis on development and effective governance.
Obianodo urged people to read the book, saying it contains experiences and ideas that could provide direction for those interested in leadership and development. He particularly highlighted the importance of grassroots leadership and said the lessons contained in the book could be applied to development efforts in Anaocha and beyond.
He described the publication as an important contribution to documenting experiences and ideas on grassroots development, expressing appreciation for being part of the book launch.
Among dignitaries who attended the event were the Secretary to the Anambra State Government, Mrs. Amaka Nnake, APGA candidate for the Dunukofia-Njikoka-Anaocha Federal Constituency, Chief Barr. Prince Chukwudi Oli; former Chief of Staff to the Anambra State Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeaguhgi, Chief Ifeatu Obiokoye, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Izuchukwu Okafor; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Vincent Chukwuemeka Ezeaka, Commissioner for Health Dr Afam Obidike, Hon. Ikeobi Ejiofor, APGA candidate for Anaocha II State Constituency, Hon. Barr. Ndubuisi Obiadi, APGA candidate for Anaocha I State Constituency, Chief Barr. Titus Nnabuike Akpudo; Chief Mrs. Chinelo Ngozi Obikwelu, among other dignitaries.
The event also attracted participants from different parts of Anambra State and various sectors, including academia, business and public service, reflecting the broad interest in issues of grassroots leadership and community development.
