Anyaegbudike and Madueke
By Janefrances Chibuzor
The recently concluded Oji River Economic and Development Summit 2025, held at the Oji River Local Government Secretariat, brought together an esteemed assembly of monarchs, public and private sector stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and development advocates. Berexnews gathered that participants convened to brainstorm actionable strategies aimed at restoring Oji River’s glory and aligning with Governor Peter Mbah’s ambitious target of achieving ₦600 billion in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to drive development across Enugu State.
The atmosphere was charged with hope and determination as the Chairman of Oji River Local Government Area, Mr. Greg Anyaegbudike, welcomed the gathering. Expressing profound gratitude for the turnout and support, he emphasised that the summit aligned with both the aspirations of the Oji River people and the broader state vision for shared prosperity. He recalled campaigning on a manifesto aimed at moving people from places they did not want to be to places where they could thrive, and described the summit as proof that the collective dream of Oji River’s people remained very much alive. Anyaegbudike spoke passionately of a future free of crime and poverty, where the masses are not merely participants but purpose-driven actors in their own development. He reaffirmed his commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and strategic planning, stressing that every initiative must be sustainable and impactful. The impressive turnout, he noted, was a clear sign of better days ahead.
Following his remarks, Dame Ugochi Madueke, the Enugu State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, delivered an emotional and inspiring address, drawing from her deep personal connection to Oji River. Declaring it providence rather than coincidence that she hailed from the area, Madueke called the summit a defining moment for laying a strong foundation for future generations. She announced the creation of a comprehensive master plan designed to ensure that development efforts would continue beyond the current administration, promising that with strategic urban planning and unwavering commitment, Oji River could emerge as a thriving center for tourism, commerce, and investment.
Madueke passionately highlighted the vast untapped potential of the area, pointing to its enchanting waterfalls, caves, shrines, and animal sanctuaries such as the Aborigin Monkey Sanctuary in Akpugoeze. She recalled the historic visit of the Queen of England in 1956, during which the Queen marvelled at the natural beauty of Oji River while commissioning its iconic power station, and challenged the audience to recognise the treasure in their midst. Stressing that peace and security were fundamental enablers of development, she revealed that even during recent explorations of newly discovered sites, military escorts had been necessary to ensure safety. She called on the people, traditional rulers, and government at all levels to work together to create a safe and welcoming environment essential for attracting tourism and investment.
Adding his voice to the momentum, Chief Chike Madueke, Chairman of the Oji River Development Summit Steering Committee, painted a vivid picture of Oji River’s historic significance and immense future potential. He recounted that Oji River was the third urban centre designated in Enugu State after Enugu City and Nsukka, and proudly noted that it housed the first power station in the entire South-East of Nigeria. He spoke passionately about the discovery of natural gas in Ugwuoba, abundant clean water sources, and rich clay deposits ideal for pottery and ceramics, as well as the vast expanses of fertile land ready for industrial and residential development. Chief Madueke emphasized Oji River’s strategic location, sharing borders with Anambra and Abia States, close to Imo State, and within an hour’s drive of major airports such as Chinua Achebe Airport, Akanu Ibiam International Airport, and Asaba Airport. Located along the Trans-African Highway leading to Cameroon, Oji River, he argued, stands as a prime candidate for becoming a major logistics and commercial hub. He pointed to the hospitality and welcoming nature of the people as an additional asset that strengthens Oji River’s case as a future centre for tourism, commerce, education, and industry.
Throughout the summit, expert-led discussions explored a wide range of topics, including infrastructure development, manpower enhancement, technological innovation, and tourism investment. Stakeholders engaged in lively deliberations about the steps needed to unlock the region’s enormous opportunities and reposition Oji River as a vital contributor to Enugu State’s economic vision. There was a strong focus on reviving historic sites, establishing hospitality training centres, strengthening security frameworks, and developing digital infrastructure that would allow Oji River’s hidden treasures to be showcased to the world. Speakers stressed that empowering the youth and women was not just desirable but essential for driving the community’s economic rebirth.
As the summit drew to a close, participants departed with renewed optimism and a collective determination to turn the day’s ideas into tangible action. The spirit of unity and purpose was palpable, and it was clear that for Oji River, the future holds not just the possibility of reclaiming its past glory, but the promise of achieving even greater heights. The resounding commitment to progress echoed through the community, affirming that Oji River’s best days are not behind it, but gloriously ahead.
