By Amby Uneze
During the over 25 years of my journalism profession as a roving reporter, correspondent, editor and media manager, I have met many prominent and notable leaders. Among the highly respected figures that at one time or the other shaped the political and economic landmark of this nation is one man I cherish so much. That person, humane, soft spoken, accommodating and gentle to the core, is Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho. I came closer to him shortly before he was appointed Nigeria's Minister of Interior in 2010. Prior to that period I had seen him from a distance as a shipping magnet as well as an oil and gas business mogul. He has remained so much an inspirator to those around him.
Capt. Iheanacho stands as a distinguished figure in Nigeria’s political and public service landscape, renowned for his impactful tenure as the Minister of Interior. His career exemplifies dedication, visionary leadership, and a steadfast commitment to national development and security.
During his tenure as Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, he was instrumental in reforming key security agencies under the Ministry, including the Nigerian Immigration Service, the Fire Service, the Road Safety Corp, the Nigerian Civil and Defence Corp, and the Correctional Service. His focus on modernization, capacity enhancement, and inter-agency cooperation helped strengthen Nigeria’s internal security framework, making it more efficient and responsive to emerging challenges. His administration was characterized by transparency, accountability, and a people-centered approach to governance which was a testament to his trailblazing leadership in public service.
This respected leader from Owerri Zone, has been a key advocate for the political advancement and representation of Owerri Zone in Imo State governance. Recognizing the need for balanced power distribution and inclusive leadership, he has played an instrumental role in mobilizing support and building consensus around the goal of producing the next governor from Owerri Zone.
Beyond his ministerial achievements, Capt. Iheanacho is deeply invested in the socio-political development of Imo State and the Owerri Zone. As the Founder of the Imo Harmony Project (IHP), he has championed initiatives aimed at promoting peace, unity, and sustainable development within the zone. The Imo Harmony Project seeks to bridge divides, foster dialogue, and create collaborative opportunities among diverse communities in Owerri Zone, thereby reinforcing social cohesion and collective progress.
Through his leadership and vision, he has worked tirelessly to unite political stakeholders, community leaders, and youth across Owerri Zone. His advocacy stresses the importance of Owerri Zone’s rightful place in the state’s political landscape, ensuring that the zone’s voice and interests are effectively represented at the highest level of governance.
Capt. Iheanacho’s strategic engagement in political dialogues, grassroots mobilization, and coalition-building has helped create a strong platform for Owerri Zone’s gubernatorial ambitions. He has emphasized the zone’s rich human resources, developmental potentials, and readiness to lead Imo State into a new era of progress and stability.
In championing Owerri Zone’s emergence towards taking over the next governor of Imo State, he rallies round all sons and daughters of the zone with his exemplified visionary leadership dedicated to fairness, unity, and sustainable development. His commitment continues to inspire confidence that Owerri Zone will soon take its rightful place at the helm of Imo State’s governance.
Capt. Iheanacho’s legacy as a trailblazer encompasses both his transformative role as Nigeria’s Minister of Interior and his ongoing dedication to peace and development through the Imo Harmony Project. His leadership continues to set a high standard for public service and community empowerment in Owerri Zone and beyond. His interest is mainly for Owerri zone to capture power based on the Charter of equity as empowered by governor Hope Uzodimma whose aim it is to ensure fairness, equity and justice in Imo State. The good thing in all his effort is that he has not indicated interest in any elective position rather to galvanize support for the Owerri zone person to become governor in 2027.
*Sir Amby Uneze is the Imo State Correspondent of Thisday Newspaper
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