Ex-Mayor Egwuibe’s NULGE Leadership Award and Dedication to New Abia Philosophy
By Ebere Uzoukwa, Ph.D
On Friday, April 25, 2025, the Abia State chapter of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) bestowed on Chief Eric Achi Egwuibe, Ph.D, FCA, the ‘Excellent Achievement Award’, acknowledging his transformative impact during his tenure as the pioneer Mayor of Obingwa under Governor Alex Chioma Otti’s administration. This meritorious award is a testament to his dedication to the New Abia Philosophy, which emphasizes transformational governance and impactful development.
Abia NULGE recognized Dr. Egwuibe’s outstanding achievements within just 11 months as Mayor, underscoring his commitment to serving the people of Obingwa and driving development projects that have positively impacted the local government area. Prior to this, Dr. Egwuibe was honored with the “Nigerian Leadership Award in Grassroot Development” by the Presidency, solidifying his reputation as a champion of grassroots development and progress.
Dr. Egwuibe’s background and exploits are a testament to his exceptional leadership skills and experience. With over three decades of experience in multinational corporations, including TotalEnergies, he developed a strong background in management and leadership. As a seasoned professional with a strong background in accountancy and finance, Dr. Egwuibe holds a Doctoral Degree in Finance and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Chartered Business Institute of the UK.
During his tenure as Mayor of Obingwa, Chief Egwuibe implemented numerous projects that transformed the council area. He rehabilitated 73 kilometers of rural roads, provided working equipment for council staff, and constructed a brand-new 300-seater pavilion. His efforts also led to the transformation of the Obingwa Council Headquarters, which today ranks among the best in the state due to massive retrofitting and completion of abandoned projects. The entire Obingwa Traditional Rulers Council conferred on him the title of “Ochikaribe 1 of Obingwa” in appreciation of his outstanding performance.
Upon exiting the mayorial position, Chief Egwuibe was re-appointed by Governor Otti as his Special Adviser on Budget and Planning. In this role, he works closely with the Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Planning to ensure effective budgeting, planning, and implementation in the New Abia administration. His expertise and experience drive the state’s development agenda, aligning with the New Abia Philosophy’s emphasis on transparency, accountability, and results-driven governance.
Dr. Egwuibe’s recent awards and recognition are a testament to his dedication to public service and community development. His leadership and commitment to the New Abia Philosophy have made a significant impact on the lives of Abians, particularly in Obingwa. As Special Adviser on Budget and Planning, Dr. Egwuibe continues to contribute to the state’s progress, working tirelessly to ensure effective governance and development. His story serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating the power of leadership and dedication to making a positive difference in society.