The Editor
The Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Echezona Anazodo, has laid out a developmental 11-point agenda aimed at repositioning Nnewi, the commercial hub of the South-East region for sustainable growth.
Anazodo called for sustainable peace and unity among residents, especially traders, describing it as a foundation for development and progress. He defended his ongoing market reforms and warning against the spread of misinformation and malicious use of the social media.
Addressing some concerns during a general meeting of ‘Nzuko-Ora Nnewi’, in Nnewi, on Monday, the LG chair made a passionate appeal emphasising that no community, no matter how economically vibrant, can thrive in an atmosphere of discord and disunity.
According to him, he chose to address the people at ‘Nzuko Ora Nnewi’ general meetings because it is the only platform to speak directly to the people he is serving, commending the people who criticise his leadership constructively.
He explained that over 400 farmers in the community will be empowered in the next few days to assist them in their farming practices, adding that more interventions in the area of health and waste management were also coming soon.
He said, “No community has witnessed more developments without peace, Nnewi residents, let us continue to leave in peace with one another for the progress of our land. In the history of Nnewi, social media has done more harm than good to Nnewi, hence why I see ‘Nzuko Ora Nnewi’ general meetings as the only platform to speak directly to the people I am serving.
“I have always applauded people who criticise my government constructively because through them I see things happening around me. I am always accessible including taking up my calls, always verify information directly from me instead of spreading some of the lies people share against the government
“Market development is the primary responsibility of every local government and Nnewi North LGA will not be an exception. Our markets in Nnewi North must key into the urbanisation agenda of the ‘solution government’, it is for this singular reason why we are rebuilding all our markets to meet modern standards.”
He, however, added that beyond infrastructural developmental, governance and institutional priority also featured prominently in his agenda, reaffirming that ‘Nzuko Ora Nnewi’ is the only legitimate body responsible for managing the affairs of the community.
He said modernisation comes with tough decisions, sounding a clear warning on illegal structures within the markets, many of which he pointed out encroach on designated parking spaces and disrupt order.
“No single shop was added in any of the lines in the shop we rebuilt, if you see any please take it for free. Many illegal structures have been constructed in our markets including encroaching on packing spaces, soon we are coming to demolish all of them in order to facelift our markets
“Nzuko Ora Nnewi is the only legitimate body managing the affairs of Nnewi, we shall continue to support them to keep up with their mandate and work towards the progress of Nnewi. Let it be clear that every other body is just a mere social club and any of their activities shouldn’t be taken seriously
“Over 400 farmers will be empowered this week to assist them in their farming practices. More interventions in the area of health and waste management are coming soon,” he added.
Anazodo restated that his leadership style reflects a willingness to listen and adapt, while openly accepting constructive criticisms, describing it as vital tool for governance.
According to him, such feedback provides insight into realities on the ground and helps refine policies for better outcomes. This openness is further reinforced by his assurance of accessibility, encouraging residents to verify information directly from him rather than relying on unverified claims circulating within the community.
He said the engagement formed part of the council’s efforts at strengthening grassroots developmental aimed fostering inclusive governance in Nnewi North LGA.
