Palpable optimism ruled the atmosphere in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State as 28 years old Osborn Nweze Umahi, son of former Governor of the State and now Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, takes charge as the new LG Chairman, with residents and stakeholders placing high expectations on infrastructure, youth development, employment opportunities, agriculture and improved grassroots services delivery to transform the council area.

Speaking during the inauguration on Tuesday, September 1, which was witnessed by the former Governor of the State now Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, and other dignitaries in attendance, the new chairman pledged to prioritise
infrastructure development – roads, schools, health facilities – and youth empowerment with job opportunities as the core of its agenda.

“We cannot talk about prosperity when our farmers cannot evacuate their produce. In the next 100 days, we will commence grading and rehabilitation of key rural roads and the completion of ongoing health center projects,” Umahi said.

He also promised to partner with the state and federal government, as well as development agencies, to attract projects in water, electricity, and ICT.

At 28, Umahi’s emergence has generated interest over the growing involvement of younger Nigerians in elective governance.

The new administration comes in at a time when the state government is pushing for grassroots development under the “People’s Charter of Needs” agenda.

As one of the 13 LGAs in Ebonyi, Ohaozara is a key food basket for the state, as it’s an agrarian LGA known for rice, yam, and palm produce, has for years battled poor road networks that cut off farmers from major markets in Abakaliki and Port Harcourt.

For many, the expectations are simple: “We want motorable roads, we want our youths engaged, and we want to feel government,” said Mrs. Nnenna Okorie, a trader at Eke Aba market.

“We have high expectations, yes. But we also have high hopes. If he delivers on youth and infrastructure, Ohaozara will smile again,” a community elder at the inauguration added.

With over 60 percent of the LG population under 35, unemployment remains a major concern. Youth leaders in the area say they are watching closely.

“We are tired of promises. We want skills, we want loans, we want inclusion in contracts and governance,” said Comr. Chinedu Nwankwo, Chairman, Ohaozara Youth Forum.

Responding, the new chairman announced plans for a “Youth in Agriculture and Tech” initiative, town hall engagements, and the appointment of youth aides to ensure direct communication with young people.

“Our youths are not a problem to be managed. They are the solution. We will ignite their potentials,” he added.

With formal inauguration, the chairman is expected to unveil his cabinet and a four-year development plan within the next 30 days.