In a remarkable act of philanthropy and community development, Anambra-born industrialist and philanthropist, High Chief Dr. Amb. Anthony Ikenna Obele (Okwunze Aguata), has officially flagged off the reconstruction of the long-dilapidated 2km Navy Outpost–Odekpe-Onitsha Road in Ogbaru LGA, Anambra State.
The flag-off ceremony, which took place on Wednesday, 15th October, 2025, was met with jubilation by local residents, road users, and the naval community, who had endured years of hardship due to flooding and the poor condition of the road.
The road, which links Odekpe village to neighbouring towns such as Ozubulu and Nnewi, has long been in a deplorable state, worsened by seasonal flooding from the Niger River. Its rehabilitation is expected to significantly improve traffic flow and boost economic activities in the region.
Speaking at the event, Engr. Tobechukwu Nzekwe, Managing Director of Toshel Construction Group, praised Chief Obele’s bold decision to singlehandedly fund the over ₦500 million project as part of his corporate social responsibility.
“Chief Obele is a man with a large heart. His intervention is not only timely but serves as a wake-up call to other industrialists, especially those in the diaspora, to remember home and contribute to its development,” Engr. Nzekwe stated.
Chief Obele, Chairman of Mekens Nigeria Ltd, leads a multi-billion Naira conglomerate with business interests spanning real estate, logistics, maritime, oil and gas, construction, and hospitality. Known for his humility and passion for youth empowerment, he has consistently used his personal resources to uplift communities and invest in human capital development.
A community leader, Chief Emeka, described the road project as “a divine intervention,” saying:
“After many years of waiting, God has heard our cries and sent us a helper in Okwunze Aguata. This is the kind of development we have long desired”.
Also speaking, Commandant of the Nigerian Naval Outpost Odekpe, Kabir Yusuf, expressed gratitude to Chief Obele, applauding his community-driven leadership and commitment to the welfare of the people.
“This road has been a nightmare during the rainy season due to severe flooding. Chief Obele’s intervention is a blessing not just to the Navy, but to the entire community,” he said.
The project aligns with the Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) model championed by the Soludo-led administration in Anambra State. Community stakeholders were urged to support and protect workers and equipment throughout the course of the construction.
With construction now underway, hopes are high that the road will bring lasting relief to the people of Odekpe and surrounding communities.
Njoku Macdonald Obinna
Media Consultant|Newspaper Columnist|Public Analyst|PR- Expert
Publisher, 4th Estate Reporters