Otti’s Vision for Functional Governance Takes Shape as UCDA Statutory Board Members Are Inaugurated | SEE PHOTOS

The Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) has inaugurated new statutory board members in line with Governor Alex Otti’s institutional reform agenda. UCDA Chairman Barr. Emeka Uwakolam charged members to see their appointment as a call to service and deliver policies that will strengthen urban governance. Read full details of the event.

 

The Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, inaugurated its statutory board members at the Authority’s headquarters in Umuahia, the Abia State capital.

 

Those inaugurated include the Mayor of Umuahia North Local Government Area, Chief (Hon.) Smart Iheoma, the Mayor of Umuahia South Local Government Area, Engr. Chinedu Enwereuzo, the Abia State Director of Lands, the Abia State Director of Health, and other key statutory members.

 

Presiding over the ceremony, the Chairman of the UCDA Board, Barrister (Pastor) Emeka Uwakolam, said the inauguration was in line with the vision of Governor Alex C. Otti, OFR, to establish functional, accountable, and efficient governance structures across the state.

 

“The governor’s intention in setting up boards across the state is to strengthen institutional governance and ensure 100% compliance with all operational frameworks,” Uwakolam stated.

 

He emphasized that the newly inaugurated board members must see their appointment as a call to service, urging them to be diligent and creative in formulating policies and frameworks that the UCDA management will implement.

 

“Governor Otti’s administration believes in functionality and institutional stability. This board must therefore focus on developing topnotch policies that will drive a modern and well-organized Umuahia Capital City,” he added.

 

In his remarks, the Mayor of Umuahia North LGA, Chief Smart Iheoma, expressed appreciation to the board and described the appointment as an additional responsibility he is ready to shoulder with dedication.

 

“This is a call to do more for the people. I assure you that I will give my best to ensure Umuahia capital city becomes a true reflection of our governor’s development vision,” Iheoma said.

 

On his part, the Mayor of Umuahia South LGA, Engr. Chinedu Enwereuzo, said his inclusion in the statutory board is a welcome opportunity to represent his people and ensure that the benefits of urban development extend to the outskirts of the capital city.

 

“Many communities in Umuahia South feel left behind in the capital development drive. This role gives me a platform to raise their concerns and make sure development touches every village,” Enwereuzo stated.

 

Also speaking, Mr. Nduma, the Director of Lands, Ministry of Lands, pledged his commitment and that of other directors who could not attend the ceremony. He assured that the directors would work closely with the UCDA board to ensure smooth land administration and sustainable urban growth.

 

Other board members present during the inauguration include Mrs. Oluchi Ahukanna, Mr. Enyinnaya Okereke, Mr. Chukwudi Abengowe, and Mr. Kingsley Agomoh, who serves as the General Manager of UCDA.

 

The event marked another milestone in Governor Alex Otti’s effort to rebuild the governance framework of Abia State through institutional reforms aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and urban development.

 

The Director of Town Planning, Faith Eze; the Director of Works, Engr. Ezeala Chidi; and the Director of Public Health, Dr. Princess Agomoh, sent apologies for joining the inauguration later due to other official engagements.

 

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