By Isaac Mission
Former elected local government chairmen in Enugu State have recognised the Chairman of Nkanu East Local Government Area and Enugu State ALGON Chairman, Sydney Edeh, with an Award of Excellence in recognition of his leadership and commitment to grassroots governance.
The award was presented during a ceremony held at the ALGON Secretariat in Enugu, where members of the Forum of Former Elected Local Government Council Chairmen commended Edeh for fostering unity among serving and former council chairmen, promoting accountability, and supporting grassroots development.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, its chairman and former member of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Samuel Ngene, described Edeh as a transparent, humble, and people-focused leader whose style of leadership has earned widespread respect. He noted that the honour was the first of its kind for a serving ALGON chairman in the state.
Ngene also praised Edeh for maintaining strong relationships with former council chairmen and ensuring they remain relevant in local government affairs. He assured him of the forum’s continued support even after his tenure.
The former chairmen used the occasion to reaffirm their support for Governor Peter Mbah, applauding his administration’s development efforts across Enugu State. They described the governor’s performance as transformative and pledged to support his re-election bid.
Former ALGON chairman Frank Ugwu said the recognition was well deserved, adding that Edeh’s leadership has strengthened cooperation between past and present local government officials.
Similarly, Deputy ALGON Chairman and Chairman of Igbo-Eze South LGA, Ferdinand Ukwueze, said Edeh has shown that inclusive leadership and accountability are essential for effective governance. He encouraged him to continue mentoring future council leaders.
Also speaking, APC chairmanship candidate for Nkanu East LGA, Mike Ogbuekwe, praised Edeh’s achievements and promised to build on his legacy if elected.
In his response, Edeh expressed appreciation for the award, saying it would inspire him to remain committed to public service and unity among local government stakeholders.
He urged current and incoming council chairmen to maintain cordial relationships with their predecessors, stressing that continuity and mutual respect are important for sustainable grassroots governance.
Highlighting projects executed under his administration, Edeh mentioned the Ojorowo Bridge, the 13-kilometre Ugbawka Road, Iyiakpu Bridge, and the Peter Ndubuisi Mbah Hall as evidence of his commitment to infrastructure development in Nkanu East.
Reflecting on his political journey, Edeh said he rose from serving as a Development Centre secretary to becoming council chairman through dedication and experience. He thanked Governor Peter Mbah for his confidence and support, saying it contributed significantly to his success as ALGON chairman.
Edeh called on former council chairmen to support Governor Mbah’s second-term ambition, describing it as the best way to appreciate the governor’s commitment to local government development in Enugu State.