Owerri: Governor Hope Uzodimma sounded the alarm Thursday, declaring Nigeria stands at a historic turning point where today’s choices will carve the nation’s destiny for generations to come.
Uzodimma made the remark at the 15th edition of the Chief Emeka Anyaoku Lecture series on Good Governance, held in Owerri.
He commended President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda. Uzodimma said Tinubu had shown courage by embracing accountability, transparency and structural reforms for the common good.
He said that such leadership requires making difficult but necessary decisions.
Uzodimma said the President’s approach mirrored the ideals of elder statesman Chief Emeka Anayoku. He described Anyaoku as an “epitome of good governance.”
He also called Anyaoku, who recently turned 93, a “symbol of integrity, service and visionary leadership.” He added that Anyaoku’s life is a blueprint for leaders in Nigeria and beyond.
“Anyaoku’s tenure as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, between 1990 and 2000, was marked by a strong commitment to democratic values,” he said.
He pointed to Anyaoku’s leadership in election observation missions and interventions during political crises in several countries as exemplary.
Uzodimma recalled that under Anyaoku’s leadership, Nigeria was suspended from the Commonwealth in 1995, following the annulment of the June 12 election and the execution of environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and others.
He said this showed Anyaoku’s strong values, even when it affected Nigeria.
He also spoke about Anyaoku’s role in ending apartheid in South Africa, including talks with Nelson Mandela.
The governor explained that the lecture series has become a key national platform for discussing governance challenges and advancing accountability in Nigeria, providing leaders with tools to address current issues.
Speaking on the theme, “The Imperative of Good Governance in Nigeria,” the governor emphasised that good governance means leadership that measurably improves citizens’ lives through accountability, rule of law, inclusiveness, and responsiveness.
He said that leadership must prioritise the common good over personal ambition and be willing to take difficult decisions that would secure long-term national development.
He said that Tinubu inherited economic challenges upon assuming office in May 2023, but opted for structural reforms rather than temporary measures.
The President decided to fix Nigeria’s foundations now rather than delay hard decisions.
“Economic indicators such as foreign reserves, GDP growth and crude oil production are improving. Inflation is gradually easing,” he said.
Uzodimma also highlighted state developments. He said his administration had reversed years of insecurity and infrastructural decay.
He said that over 130 roads had been constructed, demonstrating infrastructure development, and that projects like the Orashi Power initiative had improved electricity supply in the state, highlighting progress in power provision.
The governor said thousands of youths had been trained in digital skills. Health and education reforms have also enhanced service delivery.
“Improved security has restored investor confidence. Imo is now attractive for business and economic activities,” he said.
He urged leaders to emulate Anyaoku’s legacy. He called for commitment to reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and national development.
He commended the event organisers for sustaining a platform that has continued to encourage dialogue on governance, urging them not to relent in their efforts.
The event featured a keynote address by the Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Prof. Kate Omenugha.
It was chaired by the former Governor of Old Anambra, Sen. Jim Nwobodo, with dignitaries from across the country in attendance.
Nwobodo clarified that good governance is defined by a leader’s integrity, courage, and selfless service—qualities needed for national progress.
“The measure of leadership is not in possession of power, but in how that power is used,” he said.
He urged leaders to unite, act responsibly, and put national interest first. He also called on civil society and the media to promote transparency and accountability.
“Nations do not become great by chance.
“They rise when citizens believe in a shared vision and work together to build it,” Nwobodo said.
Omenugha reminded the audience that the youths are not only leaders of tomorrow but active partners in shaping today’s Nigeria.
She emphasised that citizenship requires active participation. People must respect the rule of law and hold themselves morally responsible.
“The future is already here, and it depends on what we do today,” Omenugha said.
She called for educational reforms and wider civic engagement. Moral grounding should also come from the family, school, church and media.
In his speech, Anyaoku commended the lecture series for inspiring national reflection and youth empowerment.
According to the nonagenarian, “principled leadership strengthens institutions, protects human rights, and promotes democracy”.
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