Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has commended the immediate past Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Ernest Nnaama Ezeajughi, for what he described as his integrity, competence and meritorious service to the state.
Soludo said Ezeajughi distinguished himself in public service and deserved statewide recognition for his contributions to the development and progress of Anambra.
The governor spoke during a grand reception organised by Awgbu Progressive Minds in honour of Ezeajughi, an indigene of Awgbu in Orumba North Local Government Area.
Soludo described Ezeajughi as a public servant who “served and served well,” noting that his competence, dexterity and capacity enabled him to discharge his responsibilities effectively.
According to the governor, Ezeajughi’s departure from office was part of the process of constituting a new cabinet and providing opportunities for other individuals to contribute to governance.
He said Ezeajughi “served the state gloriously” and successfully completed his tenure, expressing confidence that his qualities and experience would open doors for him to attain greater heights.
Soludo urged the former Chief of Staff to continue developing ideas that could contribute to the advancement of Anambra State and society at large.
The governor also praised the people of Awgbu for organising the reception while Ezeajughi is still alive, describing the gesture as commendable and worthy of emulation.
He called on communities across the state to identify and celebrate their sons and daughters who distinguish themselves through exemplary public service.
Ezeajughi had previously served as a councillor and Mayor of Brent in London, where he was said to have demonstrated notable leadership before returning to Anambra and serving as Chief of Staff to Governor Soludo during his first tenure.
The Convener of Awgbu Progressive Minds, Mr Emeka Owoh, said the event was organised to celebrate Ezeajughi’s integrity, transparency, competence and selfless service.
Owoh said the former Chief of Staff’s record provided a worthy example for younger generations and demonstrated the importance of responsible and accountable public service.
Also speaking, an Awgbu community leader and Anambra State stakeholder, Chief Okey Ezeibe, and the President-General of Awgbu, Engr. Christian Okoyeudor, commended the community for honouring Ezeajughi.
They described the recognition as a fitting tribute to an indigene whose service in government had brought pride to Awgbu.
The Chairman of the Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association, Chief Humphrey Anuna, and Chairman of the Onitsha Main Market Association, Hon. Chijioke Michael Okpalaugo, also praised Ezeajughi, particularly his accessibility, competence and relationship with the people.
A former Chief of Staff in the Deputy Governor’s Office, Chief Ugochukwu Obiefuna, described the reception as a demonstration of unity, appreciation and communal pride.
He urged other communities to emulate Awgbu by recognising and celebrating accomplished sons and daughters who have contributed positively to society.
The Mayor of Orumba North Local Government Area, Barrister Casmir Nwafor, described Ezeajughi as a worthy son whose exemplary public service had brought honour to Awgbu and the local government.
Nwafor commended his commitment to responsible service and praised his character and capacity.
Responding, Ezeajughi expressed appreciation to the people of Awgbu for the honour and thanked Governor Soludo for giving him the opportunity to serve as Chief of Staff.
He said his experience in government enabled him to contribute to the development of his community and the state, assuring that he remained willing to make his experience, ideas and goodwill available for the continued service of Anambra State and beyond.
