By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The Ebonyi State Transport Corporation (EBOTRANS) has welcomed its newly appointed General Manager, Mrs. Nnenna Jennifer Igwe, marking a historic moment as the first female to lead the corporation.
Mrs. Igwe’s appointment was confirmed by Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru during an executive council meeting two weeks ago, following the elevation of the former acting GM, Dr. Simon Idenyi, to the position of Permanent Secretary on Transport.
In her inaugural address to the staff, Mrs. Igwe expressed gratitude to Governor Nwifuru and his wife, Chief Mary Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru, for the opportunity to serve.
She emphasized her commitment to upholding the governor’s vision of transforming EBOTRANS into a leading transport company in Nigeria.
“It is an honor and a privilege to lead this corporation,” Mrs. Igwe stated. “I assure you of my dedication to making EBOTRANS one of the best transport companies in Nigeria.
“Let me begin this address by appointing the people -orientrd Governor of Ebonyi state RT. Hon. Bldr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for his commitment to making Ebotrans a world class transport company by purchasing 20 brand new Hiases buses for the company including other numerous interventions. ”
“As the new general manager of this great company , I want to assure you of my total commitment to position Ebotrans as one of the best transport companies in Nigeria.
“I will work harmoniously with all the management and staff of the company to actualize the vision of our Governor in reviving EBOTRANS to meet the transport needed of our people.
“Moreover, I shall take urgent practical steps to reposition ebotrans to serve not only the transport needs of our people but other Nigerians by expanding its operations. In driving this initiative, I will ensure accountability, good maintenance of the vehicles as equally embark on the training and retaining of our drivers in order to guarantee the safety of our passengers.
“We shall also introduce new routes across the 36 states and the federal capital territory , Abuja. Our service will be anchored on integrity , safety concerns, customer care and affordability.
“My administration will focus on expanding our operations across all 36 states and Abuja, while prioritizing accountability, safety, customer care, and affordability.”
The outgoing General Manager, Dr. Simon Idenyi, who also doubles as the Permanent Secretary on Interparty Affairs, advised the new GM to work diligently with the management team. “Change your programme of activities if you have to. We have no closing hour. If you want to succeed, you have to adjust your schedule. Any decision you take should be open. I’m happy I’ve been given the chance to rest, but I’ll work closely with you. If there’s any error, attribute it to me — that I didn’t prepare well for you to thrive,” Dr. Idenyi remarked.
Reverend Father Kenneth Nomeh, during the office dedication service, encouraged Mrs. Igwe to remain humble and focused on her responsibilities, reminding her that “if God is for us, nobody can be against us.” He urged the staff to support the new GM and work as a team to ensure her success.
The Administrative Manager,Mrs. Nenbe Beatrice, expressed optimism about Mrs. Igwe’s leadership, stating that her strong foundation in faith and her commitment to excellence would guide the corporation to new heights.
The Operational Manager, Mr. Obiahu Innocent, also pledged full support, highlighting the historic nature of her appointment as the first female General Manager.
Dignitaries, including the Chairman of Ishielu Local Government Area, represented by the Vice Chairman, Philomena Ekechi, the APC Women Leader, Mrs. Queendalyn Nwigwe and other officials, were present to offer their goodwill messages, all expressing confidence in Mrs. Igwe’s ability to lead EBOTRANS into a brighter future.