Residents of Umuokpalanri village in Enugwu-ukwu, Njikoka Local Government Area, have cause to celebrate as a philanthropist in the town,Mr. Obinna Anekwe kicks off a 1.5-kilometer road construction project in the area.

 

The road construction, which connects to Mr. Anekwe’s residence will stretch from the old Onitsha-Awka road to Ring Road in Enugwu Ukwu,

Mr. Anekwe, who hail from a neighboring village in Uruogbu but has a building in Umuokpalanri, initiated the project to alleviate the suffering caused by the deplorable condition of the road.

 

Speaking at the event, the Anambra State Commissioner for Budget, and Economic Planning, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, and Member representing Njikoka 1 Constituency, Honourable Chidiebele Ibemeka, expressed gratitude to the philanthropist and encouraged others to follow suit, highlighting the state government’s call for Public-Community-Private Partnerships and “think home” philosophy.

 

Also speaking , the Transition Committee Chairman, Njikoka Local Government Area, Barrister Clement Aguiyi commended the benefactor for his commitment to community development, emphasizing the importance of using wealth for the benefit of all rather than oppressing others.

 

He also announced plans to flag off another road in Enugu – ukwu next week and expressed optimism that around seven kilometers of roads would be inaugurated by the end of the year.

 

The traditional ruler of Enugwu-Ukwu, Igwe Ralph Ekpeh, represented by a cabinet member, Chief Clement Nwafor, and Chairman Umuokpalanri village, Deacon Henry Okafor praised the philanthropist as a true son of the soil with a genuine concern for his people’s welfare, urging the contractors to uphold high standards.

 

Responding, Mr. Anekwe, represented by his sister, Mrs. Ifeoma Anekwe, assured that the road cutting across three villages would be completed before December 20, 2023, to contribute to the community’s socio-economic development.

Speaking on behalf of Cotabs Engineering Limited, Engineer Jacob Enaini highlighted the road’s features, including double drainages, a width of 7.3 meters with flood control, and its potential to ease traffic congestion and to serve as a bypass.

 

He acknowledged challenges in removing some fences hindering progress but pledged to complete the project according to schedule and specifications