I never supported the quest or desire of Senator Hope Uzodinma to emerge governor of Imo State. Rather, I supported that of Ugwumba Uche Nwosu, a man I have an unbreakable and unquenchable relationship with.

Nevertheless, Uzodinma was declared the Governor of Imo State on January 14, 2020, following the removal of Hon Emeka Ihedioha by the Supreme Court.

I have written a lot about Uzodinma’s government in the state, but have not commented on Chief Nnamdi Anyaehie, a lawyer. Let me at this point give accolade to Governor Hope Uzodinma for his sound decision in picking a consummate administrator, manager of men and resources as the Chief of Staff, Government House.

No doubt, Sir Anyaehie has brought his vast administrative ingenuity, experience and acumen acquired in the management of men, resources and materials as state party chairman of a national

political party, and management of a multi-billion naira business conglomerate and properties of his illustrious father (Chief John Richard Anyaehie). Expectedly, the learned gentleman is expected to bring these experiences to bear on his new assignment at Imo State Government House.

Since his assumption of office as Chief of Staff, this well-educated gentleman has so far continued to discharge his duties professionally, efficiently, effectively, honourably and respectfully, both on the vertical and horizontal dimensions.

On the vertical level, Anyaehie ensures that his boss and principal is always protected, defended, represented and satisfied in tasks assigned to him. On the horizontal dimension, he relates with his subordinates with esteemed dignity, respect and honour. Convincingly, these positive virtues and attributes stand him out. No wonder, he is popularly calledEze-umuokorobia, due to his dexterity to mingle among the youth, young men and women, who have come to trust him as a leader.

By his expertise in excellently assisting the governor to organise his team and cabinet for service delivery, the job of governance has continued to gather momentum in the state. Let me at this point state that his exceptional qualities did not come cheaply, but through hard work, determination and experiences garnered over the years, from political and business organisations.

Therefore, the outstanding performance of the Chief of Staff should serve as a message to those in positions of influence, when hiring or appointing people for public service. It is unthinkable for someone with virgin experience to be given a position of responsibility on account of clannish consideration, without considering competence. Nnamdi Anyaehie“s profile could be googled for details.

Therefore, it does not require or need any repetition or photocopying here.

With Nnamdi Anyaehie on duty as Chief of Staff, mediocrity at the expense of expertise has not and can never be enthroned. This is the era of professionalism and competence.

As Governor, Uzodinma has done the needful by putting a round peg in a round hole. With Anyaehie’s involvement in the governance of Imo State, it is obvious that the shared prosperity, which is the mantra of the state government, further development and consolidation, will be experienced in the state.

•Iwuoha, FCAI, MKDA, writes from Owerri.