SSA to Abia Governor on Local Govt & Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ugoanusi Takes ‘Changing the Narrative’ Campaign to Bende LGA
— Calls on Stakeholders to Embrace Good Governance
The Senior Special Assistant to the Abia State Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Megadalene Egondu Ugoanusi, has taken her “Changing the Narrative” campaign to Bende Local Government Area, calling on local leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens to embrace transparency, accountability, and inclusive participation in governance.
She emphasized that genuine development must begin from the grassroots, noting that when governance works at the local level, it strengthens the entire state.
Hon. Ugoanusi commended Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for his people-centered approach and commitment to restoring integrity in governance. She urged stakeholders in Bende to key into the Governor’s vision by promoting openness, responsible leadership, and community partnership. “The time to change the narrative is now. The place to change it is here in Bende. And the people to make it happen are us,” she declared.
Delivering the keynote address, O.J. Bob Amanze charged local government managers to harness the resources within their wards for the overall development of their communities, emphasizing the strategic importance of the local government as the third tier of governance.
Also speaking, the SSA to the Governor on Environment, Prof. Ijeoma Ihekwumere, advised the people of Bende to adopt proper waste disposal and management practices. She warned that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has listed Abia as one of the flashpoint states prone to flooding and urged residents to avoid dumping waste in drainages to prevent environmental hazards.
In her contribution, the SA on Arts and Culture, Matilda Ayamiele, encouraged local government staff to be more proactive and committed to their duties.
She urged them to shun laxity and take ownership of their roles in advancing grassroots governance.
The SA on Technology and Innovation, Chibuzor Elizabeth Chijioke, highlighted the importance of integrating technology into local administration for efficient service delivery. She called on council staff in Bende to embrace innovation and digital tools to improve governance outcomes.
In his closing remarks, the Mayor of Bende LGA, Hon. Uwabunkonye Bassey, appreciated Hon. Ugoanusi for bringing the campaign to Bende.
He assured that the discussions and recommendations from the program would be implemented to enhance governance and service delivery in the council.
