The Association of Former Elected Local Government Chairmen of Nigeria, Enugu State Chapter, has honoured the Executive Chairman of Nkanu East Local Government Area, Hon. Sydney Okechukwu Edeh, for his outstanding leadership, exceptional service and commitment to the development of his council and Enugu State.
Edeh was presented with an Award of Distinguished Service and Comradeship at an event that brought together former and serving local government leaders, colleagues, political stakeholders and other well-wishers.
The event, which was anchored by Isaac Onoima, commenced with an opening prayer by Mrs. Chinwe Mbah, APC Woman Leader, Nkanu East Local Government, while Hon. Samuel Ngene delivered the opening remarks on behalf of the Association of Former Elected Local Government Chairmen.
In his remarks, Ngene said the association had gathered to “give honour to whom honour is due,” describing Edeh as a special breed whose leadership had earned the admiration and support of former council chairmen across the state.
Ngene, who said he had worked with Edeh during his tenure as chairman of the association, commended him for accommodating former council chairmen and recognising their contributions to the development of Enugu State.
According to him, former council chairmen had already paid their dues and contributed to the growth of their respective local governments and the state at large, adding that Edeh understood this and had provided an inclusive leadership that made them feel valued.
He said the association unanimously resolved to honour Edeh with the award in recognition of his distinguished service and spirit of comradeship, stressing that his leadership had taken the association of former council chairmen to another level.
Ngene also assured Edeh that the former council chairmen would continue to support him even after leaving office, expressing optimism that the legacy he had built would remain a positive mark on the sands of time.
The event also featured goodwill messages from several dignitaries. Hon. (Dr.) Caleb Onyema Ani, Executive Chairman of Enugu South Local Government Council, joined other serving local government chairmen in commending Hon. Edeh’s outstanding leadership qualities, and achievements.
The APC candidate of Nkanu East, Hon Mike Ogbuekwe, in the forthcoming local elections also pledged his loyalty and constant consultation with Hon Sydney Edeh.
Hon. Mrs. Esther Edeh – All Progressives Congress (APC) State Women Leader for Enugu State, Nigeria described Sydney Edeh as a son and also praised him for his leadership qualities in the state.
In a goodwill message, Uchenna Cyril Anioke, Ph.D., described the recognition as a bipartisan initiative focused on appreciating good leadership rather than political affiliation.
Also, Ogbonna Idike – Secretary of the Association, Prince Okezie Nwanjoku – Former Chairman of Aninri, Hon Frank Ugwu – Former ALGON Chairman, Hon. Ejike Ani – Former Chairman, Nkanu East, all described Hon Edeh as man of the people and a trailblazer of uncommon pedigree.
The goodwill messages generally centred on Edeh’s personality, leadership qualities, achievements and relationship with both serving and former council leaders.
*Edeh, because of his outstanding leadership and achievements was promised automatic membership of the association upon leaving office.*
Responding to the honour, Edeh described the occasion as a very wonderful and emotional day in his life, expressing appreciation to the former council chairmen for recognising his service.
He reflected on his journey into politics and public service, recalling how senior colleagues encouraged him to accept responsibilities and handle every assignment diligently, regardless of its size.
Edeh also acknowledged the support and confidence he received from the Enugu State Government, noting that the opportunity to serve in leadership came with significant responsibility.
He said his exit from office as council chairman would not mark the end of his service to the people, but rather the beginning of a new phase in which he would join the association of former council chairmen and contribute to strengthening democracy and good governance in the state.
The council chairman emphasised the importance of maintaining strong relationships across political divides, urging leaders to respect one another based on their contributions, objectives and commitment to public service.
He also called on serving council chairmen to remember that they would eventually become former chairmen, urging them to treat former office holders with dignity and ensure that their contributions were not forgotten after leaving office.
Edeh particularly urged his incoming successor, Engineer Mike, to recognise the importance of respecting former council chairmen and other past leaders, stressing that leadership was temporary and that every occupant of public office should strive to leave behind a positive legacy.
He recalled that upon assuming office, he made efforts to recognise and support former council chairmen, secretaries and deputy chairmen in his local government, saying such gestures were part of the responsibility of respecting those who had served before.
The event, which featured a gathering of past and present local government leaders, provided an opportunity for the former council chairmen to celebrate Edeh’s tenure and acknowledge what they described as his commitment to service, inclusiveness and development.
The gathering ended with prayers and goodwill for Edeh’s future, with speakers expressing confidence that his contributions to public service would continue to yield positive results beyond his tenure as Executive Chairman of Nkanu East Local Government Area, and ALGON chairman, Enugu State Chapter.