Governor Nwifuru Is Growing People, Not Just Infrastructure — Oketa
Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Leo Ekene Oketa, has said that a recent video showing young Ebonyi girls painting the Senior Staff Quarters of the University of ICT, Oferekpe, represents a practical demonstration of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s commitment to people-centered development and local economic empowerment.
In a commentary titled “The Brushstrokes of Development,” Oketa noted that while some may see the exercise as an ordinary painting contract, it reflects a broader philosophy of governance that prioritizes creating opportunities for Ebonyi people through ongoing development projects.
According to him, the sight of the young girls working confidently and professionally on the project was a reflection of an administration that deliberately ensures development benefits the people it is intended to serve.
“For some, it may simply be a painting contract. But for those who understand development, it is much more. It is income reaching homes. It is skills finding value in Abakaliki. It is dignity being attached to labour. It is young girls proving that competence knows no gender,” Oketa stated.
He observed that Governor Nwifuru’s administration has consistently pursued policies that encourage local participation in public projects, ensuring that artisans, craftsmen, contractors, technicians, and other skilled workers from the state benefit directly from government investments.
Oketa emphasized that roads, schools, housing projects, institutions, and other infrastructure being developed across Ebonyi State should not be viewed merely as physical structures but as economic channels through which livelihoods are supported and local capacity strengthened.
Referencing Governor Nwifuru’s recent remarks during a project inspection, where he stated, “That is the essence of having your craft in Abakaliki,” Oketa said the statement encapsulates the administration’s belief in promoting local talent and creating opportunities for indigenous professionals and artisans.
He argued that by giving local talents the opportunity to participate in projects within their own communities, the government is achieving more than infrastructural development.
“By creating an environment where Ebonyi artisans, craftsmen, contractors, technicians, and skilled workers can participate in projects within their own state, Governor Nwifuru is doing something deeper than executing contracts. He is growing people. And when people grow, economies grow,” he said.
Oketa further noted that the young girls featured in the video were not merely painting walls but symbolically contributing to the construction of an Ebonyi State where talent is recognized, local content is encouraged, and opportunities are created at home.
He described the video as a powerful reminder that the true impact of development is measured not only by completed projects but also by the opportunities created for citizens.
According to him, the story behind the paint is ultimately a story of leadership that understands that sustainable economic growth begins with empowering people and giving them the chance to rise through their skills and hard work.
