Dr. Martins Onyilokwu Odeh, Assistant Director and Head of Corporate Communications at the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), has been elected Chairman of the Ai’Agboko Community Development Association (ACDA), Abuja Branch, pledging to reposition the association as a catalyst for grassroots development across the Ai’Agboko Clan in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.
Dr. Odeh, a communication expert and former journalist with 15 years of service at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), emerged as the new leader of the association during its recent election in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by the association’s Public Relations Officer, Ogah Akatu, the newly elected chairman outlined an ambitious agenda focused on mobilising development partners, philanthropists and political leaders to improve the living conditions of communities across the 11 villages of the Ai’Agboko Clan.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Odeh lamented the poor state of infrastructure in communities including Upu, Edikwu, Asa 1, 2 and 3, Akpegede, Ogome, Ebologba, Ojantele, Ikobi, Otobi, Obagaya and Wards 1, 2 and 3 of Otukpo Main Town, noting that many residents lack access to potable water, decent shelter, good roads and quality healthcare.
He said the association would work with relevant stakeholders to complement government efforts in addressing the developmental challenges facing the communities.
“I stand before you today with a profound sense of responsibility as I accept the honour of serving as the Chairman of our great sociocultural and development association,” he said.
Dr. Odeh expressed gratitude to members for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to lead with integrity, transparency, fairness and inclusiveness.
He also paid tribute to the association’s founding members and past executives for laying a solid foundation for the organisation, while calling on members to put aside personal differences and unite for the advancement of the community.
“No chairman can achieve meaningful progress alone. Success requires the commitment, ideas, resources and active participation of every member. Let us embrace unity and work together for the common good,” he said.
Other elected officials include Engr. Owoicho Ammo as Vice Chairman, Ina Ali as Speaker, Emiene Odeh as Chairlady, Ajumi Okidu as Vice-Chairlady, Ogamenyi Ikongbeh as Treasurer, Ugbodu Adakole as Financial Secretary, Emmanuel Odeje as Secretary, Isaac Adakole as Assistant Secretary, and Ogah Akatu as Chief Whip/Public Relations Officer.
The new executive is expected to steer the affairs of the association while championing community-driven development initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of the Ai’Agboko people.
