The Executive Chairman of Izzi Local Government Area, Barrister Steve Emenike Nwankpa, has reaffirmed his commitment to peacebuilding by spearheading a series of strategic interventions aimed at ending communal conflicts, fostering reconciliation, and promoting unity across troubled communities in the LGA.
In a chat with Newsmen, Nwankpa who emphasized the importance of service-oriented leadership rooted in accessibility, empathy, and practical intervention, described healthcare delivery as the bedrock of his administration’s Agenda .
According to him, Izzi Local Government Area has undertaken series of direct medical interventions, which included covering hospital bills for indigent patients in several health facilities, including Sudan Mission Hospital, Iboko, General Hospital Iboko, and Sudan Hospital, Onuenyim Agbaja, St. Vincent Hospital Igbeagu, among others.
He further revealed that his administration paid off mortuary debts for families, that were unable to bury their dead.
“Additionally, traditional bone setters have been supported with food items, boreholes, and financial aid, recognizing their grassroots contributions to community health care.”
The Council boss also stated that he has prioritised education and youth development through partnerships with institutions like TAG Global, an affiliate of Cisco in Akwa Ibom, by sponsoring several youths for intensive ICT training in cybersecurity and networking.
The trainees according to him, received full scholarships, including accommodation and monthly stipends, with further support for advanced studies in Lagos.
He disclosed that the Local government was currently supporting 31 students in private schools through scholarships, and also cited the recovery and rehabilitation of abandoned and vulnerable children, including a young girl rescued from Awka, who has been integrated into his family.
“Others, such as orphans and the children who are victims of violence have received sponsorship and care,” he added.
The Chairman highlighted ongoing economic empowerment initiatives targeted at the most vulnerable members of the community to include financial support for small business owners, aid for displaced traders following demolitions, and consistent financial support to help residents restart their lives and businesses.
Nwankpa reported that under his leadership, Izzi Local Government has resolved numerous communal conflicts and long-standing disputes, saying that he has personally mediated in crisis-prone areas.
“From Nduogbaga Obashi to Ochioghu in Ezza-Inyimegu, we’ve reached every troubled area. We don’t impose settlements. We encourage traditional reconciliation process for lasting peace,” he said.
According to him, his proactive peace efforts, including the incarceration of violent offenders, have brought stability to previously volatile areas like Otamnwagba, where violence had persisted for over a decade.
The Chairman acknowledged the resilience and expertise of local farmers, particularly in yam cultivation.
He emphasized the need to curb the rising culture of dependency and “corporate begging” among youths who have abandoned agriculture for city life, calling for a return to dignity in labour.
“Leadership is about replicating a better version of yourself, not accumulating material wealth. We strive to raise people whose character and dignity can inspire future generations.”