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Celebrating Uche Anichukwu, the ‘backroom guru’ on his birthday 

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By Mazi Ikechukwu Bismarck Oji,MNSE, COREN

On 24th September, 2016, when I got an appointment letter from Senator Ike Ekweremadu, then Deputy President of the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria, as his Senior Legislative Aide, his instruction was specific and definite, as the lawyers would say – “Work with Uche Anichukwu”

29th December, 2023 marks the birthday of an enigma and a workaholic; Mazi Uche Anichukwu, my direct boss during my spell as Ekweremadu’s aide. Since we were at the Enugu State University of Science & Technology (ESUT), Enugu around the same time, it implies this his anniversary is either his golden anniversary or a year short of it.

Two things are remarkable about Uche. Firstly, his work ethics is phenomenal! From working with him, he appears to sleep and wake on his laptop. 24/7; Uche is always on top of his game, never ever dropping his guard or ‘loose guarding’, as it is described in Naịja street parlance.

If you want to see the machine in Uche at work, then, be involved in a project with him. He shall call you at any time of the day or night and if you meet him, you will find out he is firmly hooked on the job at hand.

The second thing that struck me about him was that he is an ‘original backroom boy’. According to my senior colleague in the service of Ndigbo, Chief Echezona Tony Okeke-Ojiudu( ÍdèjíÒgwùgwù n’Alor), Chairman, Zodiac Hotels Ltd, Enugu;“Backroom boys are those content to stay in the background without publicity and make things happen”

From my days with Ikeoha, I realized that Uche was an original backroom boy. Yes, his designation was Special Adviser, Media to the Deputy Senate President. However, in practice, he was much more than that. Anyone who was close to Senator Ekweremadu (our boss) or who was one of his aides would realize that Uche was much more than a media Adviser.

Owing to his calm and genial nature, Uche has this uncanny ability of ‘passing under the radar’. Outsiders looking for power points in Ekweremadu’s inner circle would never look his way. Yet, he did so much, albeit quietly.

One thing that endeared him to Ekweremadu was his intellectual prowess. Uche always wears this calm smile on his visage but beneath that ‘deceptively calm’ mien is a strong character and a goal getter.

Thinking of Uche Anichukwu, this anonymous quote comes to mind, “Hardwork spotlights the character of people: some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their nose, some don’t turn up at all”.

For Uche, he always turns up his sleeves and cuts any job at hand like a farmer would cut grass. Oftentimes, he doesn’t just turn up his sleeves. No, he pulls off his shirt and confronts the job at hand squarely.

In the years I have worked with him, it has been an ‘impossible task’ to find out when he goes on a binge. It appears ‘Oringo’ or ‘flexing’ has no place in his vocabulary.

Again, Confucius, the Chinese philosopher said, “The expectations of life depend upon diligence. The mechanic that shall perfect his trade must first sharpen his tools”. That describes Uche Anichukwu. He enjoys work. In fact, to him, work is fun and his job gives him satisfaction. As such, he and his job match one another and march on seamlessly.

When I learnt of his appointment as Peter’s Special Assistant,External Affairs, I laughed in Swahili. Due to His Excellency’s rapport with Ikeoha, I knew Ikeoha would ask him to take Uche as a ‘prized asset’. As such, I knew his designation was a ‘mere designation’, that the Uche Anichukwu, I know would do much more for His Excellency, the Enugu State Governor, beyond being an SSA, External Affairs, whatever that was meant to be.

So far, I have not been disappointed. As an original backroom boy and SSA, External Affairs to His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State, I have seen quite a few good things in this Government that bears his imprint. Yet, he remains in the background, calm, unseen and effective.

Also, he has loyalty and courage in abundance. These qualities really endeared him to Ikeoha, far beyond his fertile pencraft.

I wish to reassure our boss- Ikeoha Ndigbo that in line with his instruction, I’m still working with Uche Anichukwu.

“Oke madụ, djaama ụtụtụ! Mee sa ị bịa Avọ Emudo, sa ayị taa Jaki”

Mazi Ikechukwu Bismarck Ọjị, MNSE, COREN

(Ọ́VỤ̀ MỌ́Ọ́ WÈRÙ LA NENWE)

Publisher, hoo!haa!! Newspapers

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Birthday

Former Enugu SSG Prof. Ajah Felicitates With His Excellency Rt. Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi On His Birthday

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FELICITATIONS AND BEST WISHES @ 62
My family and I join millions of your admirers in Enugu State , Nigeria and indeed all over the world to felicitate and celebrate with you on this auspicious occasion of your birthday at 62.
We are particularly grateful to Almighty God for His grace upon your life.He will continue to protect you and give you good health for greater services to mankind .
The History of my life can not be complete without a copious chapter devoted to your benevolence and kindness upon my life
While wishing you long life , God protection ,more heights and attainment, BE ASSURED that our prayers and thoughts are always for you.

HAPPY Birthday Your Excellency
Prof Goc Ajah mni PhD & family.

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Birthday

Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi at 62: Remembering a Leader’s Open-Door Legacy, Generosity, and Service

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By PETRUS OBI

As former Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, marks his 62nd birthday, reflections on his years in office continue to centre on a leadership style that stood out in Nigeria’s political landscape—defined not by flamboyance, but by quiet strength, accessibility, and a deeply human approach to governance.
Fondly called “Gburugburu,” a nickname that underscores his widespread grassroots appeal, Ugwuanyi governed Enugu State from 2015 to 2023, a period many observers describe as one marked by stability, inclusiveness, and deliberate efforts to bring governance closer to the people.
A Governor Within Reach
Perhaps the most enduring hallmark of Ugwuanyi’s administration was his open-door policy, which redefined the relationship between government and the governed in Enugu State. At a time when political leaders often appeared distant and insulated, Ugwuanyi chose a different path—one that prioritised accessibility and constant engagement.
Government House, Enugu, under his leadership, became a hub of interaction where traditional rulers, market women, youth groups, civil servants, and political stakeholders could seek audience without the rigid barriers typically associated with power. His regular presence at community events, religious gatherings, and social functions further reinforced the image of a leader who was not removed from the realities of his people.
This accessibility was not merely symbolic. It translated into policy responsiveness, as many decisions of his administration were shaped by direct feedback from citizens. In many instances, grievances brought personally to him received swift attention, strengthening public confidence in his leadership.
Compassion Beyond Politics
Ugwuanyi’s generosity became almost legendary during his time in office. Beyond formal government programmes, he was widely known for personal acts of kindness that touched countless lives. From offsetting hospital bills for indigent patients to supporting bereaved families, funding education for underprivileged children, and empowering small-scale traders, his interventions often came quietly, without publicity.
Widows, the elderly, persons living with disabilities, and rural dwellers frequently found in him an ally. His administration institutionalised some of these gestures through social support initiatives, but it was his personal involvement that left a lasting impression on many beneficiaries.
In a political climate where leadership is often measured in grand projects alone, Ugwuanyi’s emphasis on compassion and human connection set him apart, earning him loyalty that transcended party lines.
Peace and Stability as a Policy Priority
While infrastructure and economic growth remain key metrics of governance, Ugwuanyi placed significant emphasis on peace and security—an area in which Enugu State recorded relative calm during his tenure, even as parts of the country faced serious challenges.
Through consistent engagement with traditional institutions, religious leaders, youth organisations, and security agencies, his administration fostered a collaborative approach to conflict prevention and resolution. His ability to listen, mediate, and build consensus proved crucial in maintaining stability across communities.
Observers often note that his calm disposition and non-confrontational style contributed significantly to this atmosphere of peace, making Enugu one of the more stable states in the South-East during his years in office.
Infrastructure and Rural Development
Though often described as a “quiet achiever,” Ugwuanyi’s administration recorded notable progress in infrastructure, particularly in rural development. His government focused on opening up rural communities through road construction and rehabilitation, improving access to markets, healthcare, and education.
Several urban roads were also upgraded to ease traffic congestion and support economic activities within Enugu metropolis and other key towns. His rural electrification efforts, alongside water projects in underserved communities, contributed to improving living conditions for many residents.
In the education sector, his administration invested in the renovation of public schools, provision of learning materials, and support for teachers, aimed at strengthening the foundation of basic education. Similarly, the healthcare sector saw improvements through the upgrading of primary healthcare centres and increased attention to community-based health services.
Workers’ Welfare and Administrative Stability
Ugwuanyi maintained a relatively stable relationship with the workforce throughout his tenure. Enugu State under his leadership gained a reputation for the regular payment of salaries, even during periods when many states struggled to meet such obligations.
Pensioners, often among the most vulnerable, also benefited from efforts to address arrears and improve their welfare. This commitment helped to reduce labour unrest and foster a cooperative environment between government and workers.
Political Leadership and Party Stability
Within the political space, Ugwuanyi was widely regarded as a unifying figure. His consensus-driven approach to leadership helped to manage internal party dynamics and reduce conflicts, ensuring relative stability within the political structure of the state.
He was often seen as a bridge-builder, someone who prioritised dialogue over division, and this earned him respect not only among his allies but also among political opponents.
A Lasting Impression
As Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi celebrates his 62nd birthday, the reflections go beyond policies and projects. For many, his legacy lies in the tone he set—one of humility, patience, and genuine concern for the welfare of the people.
In an era where leadership is frequently associated with power and distance, Ugwuanyi’s tenure offered a different model—one where accessibility, empathy, and quiet service defined governance.
Years after leaving office, the stories persist: of a governor who listened, who showed up, and who, in the eyes of many, governed not just with authority, but with heart.

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Birthday

Peter Ndubuisi Mbah at 54: A Technocrat’s Drive to Rebuild Enugu

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By PETRUS OBI

As Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah marks his 54th birthday, attention naturally turns to a leadership journey that has been defined by urgency, ambition, and a clear departure from business-as-usual governance in Enugu State.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Mbah has pursued an aggressive development agenda anchored on economic expansion, infrastructure renewal, and human capital development. His oft-stated vision—to grow Enugu’s economy from about $4.4 billion to $30 billion within eight years—has shaped a governance style that prioritises measurable outcomes over rhetoric.
Driving Economic Reforms and Revenue Growth
One of the most striking features of Mbah’s administration is the rapid growth in internally generated revenue (IGR). Through reforms such as digital tax systems and plugging revenue leakages, Enugu has witnessed a dramatic rise in earnings, with reports indicating growth of over 400 percent within two years.
This surge has provided the fiscal backbone for the administration’s ambitious capital projects, with budgets increasingly tilted toward infrastructure and development spending.
Massive Investments in Education
Education has emerged as a cornerstone of Mbah’s policy thrust. His government is implementing the Smart Green Schools initiative—an ambitious plan to build about 260 technology-driven schools across all wards in the state.
Designed as fully integrated learning environments, these schools aim to equip young people with digital skills and global competitiveness. Complementing this is the revival of technical and vocational education, including the construction of specialised science and technical colleges.
The scale of investment has drawn commendation from institutions such as UNICEF, which described the administration’s focus on education and primary healthcare as transformative.
Healthcare and Human Development
In the health sector, the administration has embarked on upgrading primary healthcare centres and modernising key institutions like the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital.
Budgetary allocations to healthcare have also increased significantly, reflecting a broader commitment to improving access to quality medical services and building a healthier population.
Infrastructure and Urban Renewal
From roads to urban development, Mbah’s infrastructure drive has been expansive. Dozens of road projects have been initiated across the state, with major reconstruction and new road networks aimed at improving connectivity and economic activity.
At the heart of his urban vision is the New Enugu City project—a sprawling smart city initiative designed to reposition the state as a hub for investment, tourism, and modern living.
Legacy projects such as the International Conference Centre and Hotel Presidential are also being revived to boost business and hospitality potential.
Agriculture and Food Security
Mbah’s administration is also pushing a transition from subsistence farming to agro-industrialisation. With large-scale land allocations for export-oriented agriculture and the development of farm estates, the state is positioning itself as a major player in agribusiness.
This approach aims not only to ensure food security but also to create jobs and diversify the economy.
Security and Governance Reforms
Recognising security as a prerequisite for development, the government has invested in modern surveillance systems, patrol vehicles, and institutional reforms to improve safety across the state.
In governance, digital reforms—such as land administration systems and judicial infrastructure like the new digital court building—signal a push toward efficiency, transparency, and ease of doing business.
A Leadership Defined by Ambition
In less than three years, Mbah’s administration has carved a reputation for speed, scale, and a private-sector approach to public governance. While challenges remain—as with any ambitious reform programme—his tenure so far reflects a deliberate attempt to reposition Enugu as a competitive, investment-friendly state.
At 54: Looking Ahead
As he turns 54, Governor Peter Mbah stands at a pivotal moment, balancing early achievements with the expectations of long-term transformation. If the current pace is sustained, his administration may well redefine governance benchmarks not just in Enugu State, but across Nigeria.
For now, his birthday offers not just a celebration of age, but a reflection on a leadership project still very much in motion.

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