In a bold demonstration of grassroots engagement and community empowerment, the Executive Chairman of Awgu Local Government Area, Hon. Uchenna Joseph Okolo, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, extended direct support to motorcycle transport operators in Awgu South Constituency by providing 5 liters of fuel to over 400 Okada riders.

 

The empowerment exercise, which took place at Petrotec Petrol Station, benefited riders from Awgu Wards 1 and 2, Mgbidi-Maku Ward, Obeagu Ward, Mgbowo Ward, and Anike Naanu Ward. The event drew the presence of several high-ranking council officials, including Hon. Nelson Udoji (Council Secretary), Hon. Prince Emeka Uzochukwu (SPA Political to the Chairman), Sam Ngene (Supervisor for Works), Okwueri Emmanuel (CSO), Abiola na Awgu (Administrator, Awgu Central), Hon. Mrs. Roseline Udeh (Leader, Awgu Legislative Council), and ward councilors from across the constituency.

 

Addressing the gathering, Hon. Okolo assured the riders that work would commence within 48 hours on the Ugwu-Eme Road, taking advantage of a break in rainfall to ensure smoother journeys and better business conditions for the transport community.

 

This timely intervention is in direct alignment with Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s Grassroots Inclusion Policy — a policy that continues to gain traction across Enugu State for its emphasis on community-driven development and inclusive leadership. Commending the governor for his transformational strides in the state, Hon. Okolo urged the riders to safeguard the newly built smart schools which, upon commissioning, will provide free education, meals, uniforms, transportation, healthcare, and agricultural training.

 

The Chairman also reaffirmed his loyalty to Governor Mbah and called on the transport operators to support the governor’s re-election bid in 2027. He further announced plans for quarterly meetings with the riders to address operational challenges and revealed that bus stops would soon be constructed at strategic locations based on feedback from the union.

 

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Kingsley Chukwuezeani, Chairman of the Okada Riders Union, expressed heartfelt gratitude and offered prayers for the Chairman’s continued success. Other riders, including Mr. Obumneme Ayim and Mr. Vincent Chukwudi, lauded the gesture, describing it as unprecedented in the community.

 

This initiative, which follows a similar outreach to Okada riders in Awgu North on August 12, underscores Hon. Okolo’s unwavering dedication to strengthening community bonds, addressing everyday needs, and ensuring that development truly reaches the grassroots. By providing not just fuel for motorcycles but also tangible hope for his constituents, Hon. Okolo continues to bring governance to the very doorsteps of the people of Awgu.

 

Hon. Tochukwu Chukwu

Special Adviser, General Media and Publicity

Office of the Executive Chairman, Awgu LGA