Ex-Mayor Victor Ikeji prioritized the needs of Umuahia North, grading rural roads, addressing flood issues, and empowering residents through skill training before undertaking council renovations.
Umuahia North, Abia State — High Chief Victor Ikeji, PhD, who recently concluded his term as Mayor of Umuahia North Local Government Area, has left a transformative mark on the community, adopting an approach that prioritized the people before addressing council infrastructure. In his under-a-year tenure, Dr. Ikeji’s initiatives extended beyond traditional council renovations to focus on rural access, urban flood prevention, business-friendly spaces, and skills training.
Unlike many of his counterparts, who directed their efforts toward internal council renovations, Dr. Ikeji began his term by addressing the critical needs of the Umuahia North people. Recognizing the importance of rural access for economic activity, he spearheaded a project to grade over 40 rural roads, giving villagers reliable access to the town. This move not only facilitated the transportation of farm produce to markets but also improved connectivity between rural areas and the city, benefiting commerce and daily life.
As part of his dedication to the state capital’s environmental health, Mayor Ikeji took steps to address urban flooding in Umuahia by desilting gutters in critical areas. This intervention, aimed at preventing flood damage, showcased his commitment to solving long-standing issues that had negatively impacted residents and businesses in Umuahia. His efforts extended to the city’s motor parks, where he improved safety and convenience for commuters and traders by installing streetlights and providing public conveniences, making the parks safer and more business-friendly.
In a drive toward human empowerment, Dr. Ikeji launched a training program, equipping over 300 residents with valuable skills in diverse fields such as pastry making, welding, sewing, and more. His focus on skills training created opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, enhancing the economic potential of the community.
Only after implementing these impactful programs for the people did Dr. Ikeji focus on renovations within the council headquarters. His final projects included extensive internal renovations such as desilting gutters, asphalting internal roads, construction of a state-of-the-art entrants gate and upgrading council buildings, creating a functional and efficient administrative environment.
Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Ikeji stated, “I believed it was essential to listen to the needs of Umuahia North’s people first, as this approach ensures that our projects serve their best interests.”
His community-first approach has set a new standard in governance for Umuahia North, leaving a lasting legacy that prioritizes meaningful development for residents.
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