SIR AMBY UNEZE KSJI
Leadership qualities are the foundation upon which exceptional leaders are built. In today’s dynamic and ever-evolving political world, it appears very rare to get political leaders that can be matched with effective leadership. However, I am glad to identify one man, who matches his words with action, and that is the mark of effective leadership. He is our ever compassionate, visionary, dynamic, courageous, passionate governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma (Onwa).
Effective leadership is a rich amalgamation of various qualities such as integrity, vision, communication skills, adaptability, empathy, resilience and a dedication to continuous learning.
These strengths and skills enable effective leaders to navigate challenges, foster collaboration and drive results. What sets exceptional leaders apart is their ability to lead by example, inspire trust, walk the talk and empower those around them to realize their full potential.
I decided to choose this topic because of the very recent appointments of Commissioners, Special Advisers and Senior Special Assistants to the Governor to make up the expanded State Exco of Imo State.
I can recall vividly the promise His Excellency made inside the Sam Mbakwe Chambers on January 16, 2024, a day after his inauguration for his second term in office. He said “as I dissolve this expanded Exco today in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I will still work with the majority of you here. We are still friends and we will collectively make our dear State (Imo) better than I met it.” This was a cheering news to all that were in the Sam Mbakwe Hall, at the Government House.
To match his words with action, His Excellency, just yesterday (June 20) began to walk his talk. Not only the appointment of SAs and SSAs, he had in the past months reappointed some of the Commissioners. In the recently announced appointment of SAs and SSAs, His Excellency also returned some of those who worked with him in his first tenure. I know also that the Governor in his usual magnanimity will reappoint more in the coming days and weeks. What a promise-keeping leader as Senator Hope Uzodimma?
By his actions, he is indeed a leader one can fall on. A leader to be counted upon. A dynamic and courageous leader to follow. Your Excellency, you are one in a million persons. Kudos for actualizing your promise.
To assist His Excellency achieve these great feats are no other persons than the indefatigable and workaholic personalities of Chief Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, the ebullient Chief of Staff (CoS), (Eze Umuokorobia), the ever-loving soul of the youths; the longest-serving and tireless Secretary of Government of Imo State (SGI), our own Chief Cosmas Iwu; and the one I always call ‘Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)’ in-making, the political Agafe of our time, the young and articulate Chief Political Adviser (CPA), Chief Barr. Enyinna Onuegbu (Ebekuodike).
In summary, leadership is a dynamic blend of attributes that, when effectively harnessed, can catalyze positive change and steer both individuals and organizations toward success. A good leader inspires and treats his people correctly. That is the mark of His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State, Nigeria.
*I am Hon. Sir Amby Uneze, Former SA on Print Media to the Governor*
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