By Victor Nwegede
The Executive Chairman of Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Timothy Nwachi, has unveiled bold plans to bring life-touching projects and industries closer to the grassroots, with a flagship automobile diagnostic centre already under construction in partnership with leading Nigerian automaker, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing.
Speaking with journalists in Abakaliki on Tuesday, Nwachi said his administration was motivated by the need to restore Afikpo’s pride as a historic hub of civilisation and economic growth in Ebonyi State.
“Prioritising the interests of my people has been top-notch for my administration. Afikpo, as a people, has a rich history — the first Governor of the Eastern Region, late Dr. Akanu Ibiam, came from here and played a pivotal role in the creation of Ebonyi State.
"God has naturally placed us in a position of relevance, and the only way to sustain it is by knowing what our people want and giving it to them,” he said.
The council boss disclosed that the idea for the automotive project emerged during an interactive session with local automobile technicians, who requested a designated mechanical village to improve their services.
“Innoson has agreed to bring down one of their state-of-the-art electronic diagnostic machines to Afikpo.
"This equipment can detect faults in modern vehicles within minutes. We’ve provided the land, started erecting the structure, and we’re partnering with them and other stakeholders to ensure the facility benefits both residents and visitors,” Nwachi explained.
On healthcare, he said his administration had prioritised rural accessibility and facility upgrades to complement Governor Francis Nwifuru’s reforms in the sector.
“At Ugwegu, we constructed a bridge to make the primary healthcare centre accessible, and in Amuro, we rehabilitated and repainted a dilapidated health centre to create a conducive environment for both workers and patients. We are determined to bring healthcare services closer to our people,” he stated.
Nwachi emphasised that both the automotive and healthcare initiatives are part of a broader strategy to attract industries, boost local commerce, and improve quality of life in Afikpo.
