By Annie Achulike
In this comprehensive sit-down interview with journalists in Port Harcourt last weekend, the leading aspiring Chairman of Ogba Egbema Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA), Mr. Henry Chimuenya Umejuru shared his vision and plans for ONELGA. He also spoke on the upcoming youths project tagged, HH Youth Fest Talent Hunt ONELGA 2024.
QUESTION: What drives your ambition to become ONELGA Chairman, and how do you plan to make a difference?
UMEJURU: “Growing up in ONELGA, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges our people face. As chairman, I’ll tackle these issues head-on, focusing on education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic empowerment. My goal is to leave a lasting legacy.”
QUESTION: How will you address unemployment and support local businesses?
CHIMUENYA UMEJURU Umejuru: “Job creation is crucial. My administration will establish a business incubation center, offering loans, training, and mentorship programs. We’ll also attract new investments, foster partnerships, and create an enabling environment for entrepreneurship.”
QUESTION: What’s your strategy for improving ONELGA’s dilapidated roads and schools?
CHIMUENYA UMEJURU Umejuru: “We’ll prioritize our budget, allocate funds efficiently, and engage the state and federal governments to secure necessary support. We’ll rehabilitate existing infrastructure, construct new ones, and ensure our children have conducive learning environments.”
QUESTION: How will you empower ONELGA’s youth?
CHIMUENYA UMEJURU: “Our youths are our future. My HH Foundation is organizing the HH Youth Fest Talent Hunt ONELGA 2024, a flagship project aimed at showcasing their talents, providing skills training, and offering scholarships.
The show will be held at the Go-Round Football Club Stadium, Omoku, on Sunday, September 22, 2024. It will feature an array of musicians and comedians. There will be lots of dancing and songs by ‘Mbanabaragu’s singers (about 52 of them).
QUESTION: Can you elaborate on the HH Youth Fest 2024 and what it holds for the people of Ogba Egbema and Ndoni?
CHIMUENYA UMEJURU Umejuru: “HH Youth Fest Talent Hunt ONELGA 2024 is a groundbreaking initiative, bringing together young people from across the LGA. The event will feature talent showcases and competitions. There will be disbursement of capital for SMEs, workshops on leadership, businesses, and antisocial vices crusade, as well as talent hunts and showcasing of God giventalents.
The show will feature performances by top artists, including Nyash Na Nyash (Chella), Mr. 2Kay, and Wonder D’ Talk. Also billed to perform are Maxi, iLL Twist, Sule Vibes, Crown Jadas, Mighty, Swixx Main Main, Rowlly, Jah Reighs, DJ Ayi, Kingpin, Ceeside, and Hypelord Mayorly.
We’ll also launch a youth empowerment program, providing resources and support for startups and small businesses. We’ll establish a youth development center, focusing on ICT, agriculture, and vocational training.”
QUESTION: What healthcare reforms do you propose?
CHIMUENYA UMEJURU: “Healthcare is paramount. We’ll build or renovate hospitals, increase healthcare personnel, and provide essential medicines to vulnerable groups. Our goal is accessible, quality healthcare for all.”
QUESTION: Define ‘Good Leadership’ and how you’ll embody it.
CHIMUENYA UMEJURU: “Good leadership means being honest, fair, transparent, and accountable. I’ll engage with our people, listen to their concerns, and make informed decisions benefiting everyone. Hard work, empathy, and integrity will guide my administration.”
QUESTION How will technology enhance ONELGA’s development?
CHIMUENYA UMEJURU: “Technology will bridge gaps. We’ll create a local government website, utilize social media for communication, and expand internet access to rural areas. This will facilitate efficient service delivery, connectivity, and economic growth.”
QUESTION: What’s your vision for ONELGA’s future?
CHIMUENYA UMEJURU: “I envision ONELGA as a thriving hub, offering opportunities for all. We’ll provide basic amenities, support businesses, create jobs, and foster a sense of community.”
QUESTION: Any final message to our readers?
CHIMUENYA UMEJURU: “I promise to always listen, be accountable, and work relentlessly to make ONELGA a better place. Join me in this journey, and together, we can achieve greatness. I won’t forget to solicit your support for the HH Youth Fest Talent Hunt ONELGA 2024, and let’s empower our young people to build a brighter future.”