Leadership in local government is the cornerstone of grassroots development, and Hon. Dr. Ibenaku Onoh has exemplified this truth after his election victory as the Mayor/ Chairman of Enugu North Local Government Area (LGA), Enugu State. In a time where effective governance is both necessary and demanded, his administration has stood out through innovation, accountability, and unwavering commitment to the people in line with the Tomorrow is here visionary dream of the Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.
Visionary Leadership Rooted in Community Development
From the outset, Hon. Onoh articulated a clear vision: to transform Enugu North into a model LGA through infrastructural renewal, youth empowerment, health care delivery, educational development, and enhanced security. His administration began with engaging the working force/ staff of the Enugu North LGA, a town-hall series where community stakeholders, traditional leaders, and civil society groups articulated their most pressing needs. This participatory approach set the tone for an inclusive government and a responsive policy direction.
Infrastructure: Building the Backbone of Progress
Under Hon. Onoh’s leadership, Enugu North LGA has witnessed a significant transformation in physical infrastructure. Notable among these are the construction and rehabilitation of rural and urban roads that connect major communities and enhance economic activity.
He also spearheaded the renovation of dilapidated public buildings, including the local government secretariat, health centers, and town halls in key communities. Solar-powered street lighting projects are being implemented across key centres. This move not only beautifies the places but has enhanced nighttime security.
Health Care: Strengthening Primary Access
One of the cornerstones of Hon. Onoh’s administration is improved healthcare delivery. Recognizing that quality health care is a right, not a privilege, he invested heavily in the refurbishment and equipping of Primary Health Care Centers (PHCs). Facilities in areas like Asata, Garki, and Uwani have been upgraded with modern medical equipment, reliable water supply, and standby generators to ensure 24/7 services.
His administration also introduced a mobile clinic initiative, bringing medical care directly to underserved communities, especially in remote settlements. The local government also partnered with the state’s Ministry of Health to conduct quarterly immunization and maternal health campaigns, drastically improving child and maternal health indices in the LGA.
Education and Youth Empowerment
As a youth well equipped with laudable governance strategies, Hon. Onoh understands that the foundation of any progressive society is quality education. On many occasions, he has led supervisory visits to Smart Schools building projects in all the wards across Enugu North LGA and always appreciates the Governor for his education initiatives that birthed the Smart School projects, ongoing in the entire wards in Enugu State, which his Local Government Area is a beneficiary too. He always emphasizes that he is open to discussion centered on strategies to enhance community welfare and strengthen educational initiatives that create a lasting impact.
In the area of youth development, the “Enugu North Youth Empowerment Scheme” launched under his administration has provided training in ICT, fashion design, hairdressing, carpentry, and welding. Many young people have graduated from these programs, many of whom were given starter packs and small business grants to begin their entrepreneurial journey. His support for education also includes scholarships for outstanding students from indigent families and regular career development workshops in partnership with local NGOs. He has also engaged experts to fashion good education models in a technology-driven era for the development of the education sector under his leadership, with sustainability plans in place.
Security and Peacebuilding
Good governance cannot thrive without peace and security. In response to rising security concerns across Nigeria, Hon. Onoh established a multi-stakeholder local security taskforce involving the Nigeria Police, local vigilante groups, traditional rulers, and the neighborhood watch. Through this synergy, crime rates have dropped significantly in high-risk areas.
He also initiated a Peacebuilding Dialogue Series to address youth restiveness and cultism. These dialogues have fostered understanding and reduced communal tensions. His administration’s firm support for the community policing model aligns with the state government’s wider security reform strategy.
Women Inclusion and Social Welfare
Hon. Onoh’s governance approach has been markedly inclusive of women. Women occupy key positions within the local government administration, and female empowerment has been integrated into all developmental agendas. Programs such as “Women in Trade” and “Mothers’ Health Support Scheme” have improved the economic standing and health outcomes of women across Enugu North LGA.
Social welfare initiatives under his watch have included care packages for the elderly, support for people living with disabilities, and annual free medical outreaches during festive periods. These have significantly improved the quality of life for vulnerable members of the community.
Environmental Sustainability
Environmental management was another area where Hon. Onoh recorded landmark achievements. His “Clean Enugu North Initiative” involved the provision of waste bins across the LGA, weekly waste evacuation, and a partnership with the Enugu State Waste Management Authority (ESWAMA) for improved sanitation services.
In a bid to combat climate change and promote sustainability, tree planting drives were launched in schools and markets. The administration also enforced environmental laws, ensuring businesses adhered to cleanliness standards and noise control regulations.
Transparency, Accountability, and Public Trust
Perhaps most commendable is Hon. Onoh’s insistence on transparency and fiscal accountability. His administration is known for publishing quarterly financial reports, detailing revenue collection, expenditure, and project milestones. Regular press briefings and stakeholder meetings have fostered a culture of openness.
In recognition of his efforts, civil society organizations and media houses have awarded Hon. Onoh with several accolades, including the Merit award as the “ Best Performing Local Government Chairman” from Rootswatch Magazine 2025.
In his good leadership style as the Chairman of Enugu North LGA, Hon. Ibenaku Onoh has set a high standard for local governance not only in Enugu State but across Nigeria. His legacy is one of service, impact, and transformation. He has demonstrated that local government leadership, when purpose-driven and people-focused, can significantly improve lives. His private sector experience, legislative exposure as a former member of the Enugu State House of Assembly, where he represented Enugu North, educational experiences spanning a doctorate degree holder and his zeal to serve have all shaped his prowess in governance, where he has proven what can be achieved when the will is there.
Hon. Ibenaku Onoh’s administration as the city Mayor of Enugu North LGA is a clear example of what is possible when good governance principles are applied at the grassroots level. His achievements in infrastructure, health, education, security, youth empowerment, women’s inclusion, and transparency have positioned Enugu North as a benchmark for other local government areas.
In a country striving for development and democratic deepening at the local level, Hon. Onoh stands as a beacon of hope and a model of effective local governance.