Thursday, December 4, 2025, Dr. Eric Odo emerged victorious once again, receiving THE BEST CHAIRMAN OF THE YEAR — ‘CHAMPION OF IMPACTFUL DEVELOPMENT AWARD’, a testament to his ability to address pressing issues effectively. In our local parlance, we say — he scratches where it exactly itches.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Enugu council, bestowed the Executive Chairman of Igbo-Etiti with the award for Overall Best Chairman of the Year 2025 in Enugu State. This recognition followed an evaluation by the journalist body of how effectively the 17 local government chairmen delivered on their core mandate of bringing governance closer to the grassroots and driving rapid socio-economic growth in their communities, encompassing community engagement and social cohesion, financial management, security and safety of citizens, infrastructure development, health, education, transparency and accountability, economic development and job creation, service delivery, and other key areas.
This prestigious and meticulously evaluated award was presented to Dr. Eric Odo on Thursday, December 4, 2025, by the NUJ State Chairman, Mr. Obinna Ogbuka during the 2025 Press Week held at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Enugu.
I recalled the chairman’s initial statement, in which he asserted that his assumption of power was not driven by a desire to compete with or undo anyone, but rather to leave a lasting impression on the historical record, such that his wide-ranging achievements would provide a rich subject for research by students of history and political science following his departure from office.
You know, when you next meet Dr. Eric Odo, look him straight in the eye and you will see a rare human being who has dedicated himself to transforming the dominant narratives and political strategies that have shaped the course of history, not just in Igbo-Etiti alone.
There are still more awards ahead and don’t be surprised, he would grab almost all of them with evidence-based projects and impacts.
Dr. Eric is a man who has been blessed by God and is also aware of his responsibility to use this blessing wisely. He has come to serve with complete honesty and all we need is to support him and pray for him.
According to Igbo adage, we commonly pray for our sons and successors to achieve greater heights than we did, and Dr. Eric Odo is indeed doing greater things.
To God Almighty and Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, we express our deepest gratitude — We appreciate you for making Dr. Eric a reality in Igbo-Etiti.
