▪️Chijioke Ogbodo

Atlanta, July 6, 2024 – The bustling city of Atlanta played host to the annual convention of the Nnewi USA (NUSA), bringing together the diaspora community to discuss pressing issues facing their homeland. This year’s event, held at the Marriott Atlanta Airport Gateway, was marked by a poignant and insightful keynote address delivered by Chief Ben Etiaba FCA, titled “Urbanization and Security Challenges in Nnewi.”

Chief Etiaba, a prominent figure in ethical leadership and a Fellow of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, shared his deep concerns and thoughtful solutions regarding the rapid urbanization and escalating security issues in Nnewi, a city known for its commercial prowess and vibrant culture.

A Storied History and Notable Heroes

A cross-section of the audience

Nnewi, often referred to as the “Japan of Africa” for its industrial achievements, has a rich history filled with remarkable individuals who have contributed to its growth and prosperity. Chief Etiaba began his address by paying tribute to these figures, emphasizing the importance of remembering the past while forging a path for the future.

“In business, we owe much to pioneers like Sir Louis Odumegwu Ojukwu OBE and Dr. Cletus Ibeto CON, whose entrepreneurial spirit has put Nnewi on the global map,” Chief Etiaba stated. He also highlighted leaders in politics and professional fields, including Rt. Hon. Dr. Akwaeke Nwafor Orizu GCFR and Professor ABC Nwosu, who have played pivotal roles in shaping the community.

The Visionary Igwe’s Blueprint

Chief Etiaba recounted the visionary efforts of HRH Igwe Dr. K.O.N Orizu III CON, who, in the early 1970s, laid the foundation for Nnewi’s transformation into a commercial and industrial hub. “Igwe Orizu’s vision to establish the Nkwo Nnewi Motor Spare Parts market was a masterstroke,” Etiaba noted. “It catalyzed economic activities and nurtured the ‘Igba Boy’ system, a unique venture capital model recognized by Harvard University.”

The Igwe’s foresight led to Nnewi’s reputation as an industrial powerhouse, hosting major manufacturing firms like Ibeto Group, Innoson Group, and Chicason Group. However, this rapid development has not been without its challenges.

Urbanization: Blessing and Curse

Urbanization, as Chief Etiaba pointed out, is a double-edged sword. It brings economic growth and opportunities but also leads to significant challenges, especially when unplanned. “Nnewi has evolved into an urban city, albeit an unplanned one,” he said. “This has resulted in severe air pollution, urban slums, inadequate housing, and a sharp increase in crime rates.”

Chief Etiaba illustrated the dire situation with statistics, noting that Nnewi’s population grew by 5% in 2024, reaching 1,301,000. This rapid growth, while indicative of the city’s attractiveness, has strained infrastructure and services, leading to overcrowding, inadequate healthcare, and environmental degradation.

Security Concerns: A Growing Menace

Perhaps the most pressing issue Chief Etiaba addressed was the alarming state of security in Nnewi. “Our city is presently very insecure,” he lamented. He cited the 2020 End SARS protests, which severely disrupted police operations, and the 2021 Owerri Prison break, which unleashed a wave of seasoned criminals into the region.

L – R: Ben Etiaba, Dr. Obi Orizu, Mrs Lois Ofomata and daughter, Chineze.

“The situation is dire,” Chief Etiaba warned. “Just days ago, several residents, including a vigilante commander, were killed by gunmen. This is a grim reminder of the daily threats our people face.” He emphasized the need for both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to tackle the menace of crime.

Community Voices: A Call for Collective Action

The convention also featured contributions from notable Nnewi sons, such as Chief George Moghalu and Bishop Ndubuisi Obi. Chief Moghalu highlighted the role of urbanization in exacerbating security challenges. “Nnewi’s rapid population growth, without commensurate infrastructural development, has led to severe security issues,” he remarked. “We must support and collaborate with security agencies to address these challenges.”

Bishop Ndubuisi Obi shared insights from the Diocese of Nnewi’s efforts to create employment and empower the youth. “We have built an oil and gas station, developed a food market, and established vocational institutes,” the Bishop explained. “These initiatives provide jobs and help mitigate the root causes of insecurity.”

Solutions and Hope for the Future

Chief Etiaba proposed a multifaceted approach to address Nnewi’s security and urbanization challenges. “Education, both formal and vocational, is key,” he asserted. “We must enhance and aggressively pursue educational opportunities to get our youths off the streets and into jobs.”

He also advocated for a new security levy to fund an expanded and modernized security network, emphasizing the importance of intelligence gathering. “A fortified security vigilante outfit, equipped with modern tools and adequate funding, is crucial,” he said.

Furthermore, Chief Etiaba called for the regulation of tricycles and motorcycles, often linked to security incidents, and the establishment of a comprehensive database of residents and properties. “Clear sightlines, effective lighting, and well-maintained areas can deter crime and create a sense of ownership and responsibility,” he explained.

A Vision for a Greater Nnewi

The convention concluded with a sense of optimism and determination. Chief Etiaba’s address, along with contributions from community leaders, underscored the need for collective action and strategic planning. “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,” Chief Etiaba quoted Helen Keller, encapsulating the spirit of the event.

As NUSA members and attendees left the Marriott Atlanta Airport Gateway, they carried with them a renewed commitment to addressing the challenges facing Nnewi. The discussions and ideas shared during the convention will undoubtedly shape the future of their beloved city.

In Their Own Words: Voices from the Convention

Interviews with attendees provided further depth to the discussions. Dr. Julian Anagbogu, National President of NUSA, expressed his gratitude for Chief Etiaba’s insightful address. “Chief Etiaba’s analysis was both comprehensive and inspiring,” Dr. Anagbogu said. “His solutions offer a roadmap for our collective efforts.”

Mrs. Stella Okoli OON, a business leader from Nnewi, echoed the need for community involvement. “We have always been resilient and resourceful,” she stated. “By coming together and supporting initiatives like those proposed by Chief Etiaba, we can overcome these challenges.”

Young professionals also shared their perspectives. Chijioke Okoli Esq SAN, a lawyer and activist, highlighted the importance of engaging the youth. “Our generation has the energy and creativity to drive change,” he said. “We must be included in the conversation and given opportunities to contribute.”

Looking Ahead: A Blueprint for Progress

The 2024 NUSA convention served as a catalyst for addressing critical issues in Nnewi. The ideas and solutions proposed by Chief Etiaba and other speakers will form the basis for future initiatives aimed at improving urban planning, enhancing security, and fostering economic growth.

As Nnewi continues to evolve, the collective efforts of its diaspora community, local leaders, and residents will be essential in navigating the challenges and harnessing the opportunities of urbanization. The spirit of collaboration and commitment to progress, as demonstrated at the convention, provides a hopeful outlook for the future of Nnewi.

Final Thoughts

Chief Ben Etiaba’s keynote address at the NUSA convention was a powerful call to action for the Nnewi community. His insights into the complexities of urbanization and security challenges, coupled with practical solutions and a deep appreciation for Nnewi’s rich heritage, resonated with attendees and set the stage for meaningful change.

As Nnewi faces the future, the lessons learned and the strategies discussed at this convention will guide its path toward a safer, more prosperous, and well-planned city. The Nnewi community, both at home and abroad, stands united in their commitment to realizing this vision.

Chief Etiaba’s closing words, “May Almighty God continue to bless our ancient city of Nnewi and its people,” reflect the deep love and hope that drive this community forward. With determination and collective effort, Nnewi can overcome its challenges and continue to thrive as a beacon of resilience and progress.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The 2024 NUSA convention was not just a gathering of minds but a pivotal moment for the Nnewi community. The discussions held and the solutions proposed offer a blueprint for addressing the urgent issues of urbanization and security in Nnewi. As attendees return to their respective homes, the spirit of collaboration and the commitment to positive change will undoubtedly drive efforts to make Nnewi a safer and more prosperous city.

Chief Ben Etiaba’s keynote address was a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of strategic planning. As Nnewi navigates the challenges of urbanization, the lessons from this convention will guide its journey toward a brighter future.

The Nnewi community, united in their love for their homeland, is poised to take the necessary steps to ensure that their city continues to thrive. With a shared vision and a commitment to progress, Nnewi can overcome its challenges and emerge stronger than ever.

A Community United: The Road Ahead

The road ahead for Nnewi is filled with challenges, but the community’s resilience and determination provide a strong foundation for progress. The insights and solutions shared at the NUSA convention will serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path toward a safer, more prosperous Nnew

C. Don Adinuba

As Bart Nnaji, founder and chairman of the Geometric Power group, Nigeria’s only integrated electricity organization, turns 68 today (Saturday, July 13, 2024), one important lesson our countrymen and women can learn from him is the imperative of matchless optimism. Even when all hope is forlorn and all available evidence points to gloom and doom, Nnaji not only expects the best but also works passionately towards delivering superior performance. At a time when top Western multinationals are leaving Nigeria in droves, Nnaji is demonstrating unparalleled patriotism: he is leading General Electric of the United States, the world’s oldest and largest electricity equipment manufacturing company in the world, to build another power-generating firm in Aba, Abia State. If not for the Federal Government’s suspension of power purchase agreements (PPAs) some years ago, the plant would have been completed by now. This is a story for another day.

Indeed, only a person with Nnaji’s faith in Nigeria could insist, for a whole 20 years, on proceeding with the 188 Megawatt Geometric Power Plant in Aba and the Aba Power Electric Company to a positive conclusion, despite the spirited determination of top and powerful Federal Government officials between 2012 and 2015. These investments, the largest in the Southeast, are worth S800m. The fact that the Aba Independent Power Project was commissioned last February 26 is nothing short of a miracle. It is frequently difficult to comprehend what drives Nnaji’s optimism against all evidence and rationality. This is all the more so because, as the great American thinker, Francis Fukuyama, notes in The End of History and The Last Man, we live in a world where pessimists are considered profound and optimists are regarded as naïve, even when events eventually vindicate optimists.

The streak of boundless optimism has enabled Nnaji to record several significant attainments. He joined the University of Massachusetts in 1983 at the age of 26 and rose to Professor and Director of Automation and Robotics Laboratory almost within the twinkle of an eye. He was the first Black person to be become tenured full Professor of Engineering in the University. In 1996, the University of Pittsburgh named him Distinguished Professor of Engineering. No Black person by then had been named a Distinguished Professor in Engineering in American history. At St John’s University in New York, he made history in 1980 as the best graduating student in physics and mathematics. No black person had emerged as the best overall student in the institution which was then 120 years old.

An incident that occurred when he was in year five at Saint Patrick’s Secondary School Emene, Enugu, is worth recalling. During the inter-house sports competition, there were no persons to represent his house in two or three field and track events. He was the Deputy Senior Prefect, so he felt personally challenged. Though he had never participated in any sporting competition, he took up the gauntlet. Nnaji surprisingly took the first position in the long jump and triple jump, defeating star athletes representing East Central State in national competitions.

Nnaji was thus buoyed to represent his house in two other races, hurdles and 100 meters. He came first in each. By the time anyone could say, Bart, he had begun to represent East Central State, now comprising Abia, Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi, and Enugu states, in national competitions. In one of the events in 1975, he met, among other great sports icons, Emmanuel Okala of the famous Enugu Rangers Football Club who was to become Nigeria’s most legendary goalkeeper. They are still friends.

Nnaji joined the East Central State Sports Council, as Okala had done. He received scholarships to study in the United States for excellence in sports and academics. Though one of the scholarships came from Columbia University in New York, an Ivy League institution, Nnaji chose the one from St John’s University because of his devotion to the Catholic Church which owns the institution. Much as he would have accepted the offer from Columbia if he had known what he now knows about the rankings of the two New York universities, he is very proud of the ethics and values St John imbued in him, especially regarding working for the public good. Lest we forget, Nnaji’s records in the long jump and triple jump at St John’s remain unbeaten, and this is one of the considerations for his name to be in the university’s hall of fame.

To appreciate Nnaji’s philosophy that there is no mountain too high to climb, another incident is worth recalling. The immediate Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Anthony Obinna, an outstanding scholar, approached Nnaji in 2016 with a proposal which the religious leader was fairly certain that the scientist would reject: to deliver a two-three-hour academic public lecture in central or standard Igbo to a large audience that would be broadcast live. Nnaji, who had never studied Igbo even for a day all his life, accepted the challenge with enthusiasm! And he delivered the lecture to an endless applause from a huge crowd on September 4, 2016.

Now, the third example of Nnaji walking successfully where angels fear to tread. The leadership of the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) was in 2000 privately bemoaning the fact that there were no Nigerian organizations capable yet of competing with foreign firms in such things as building power plants, not to speak of building an emergency power plant within one year. NEPA was then constructing the Shiroro to Abuja 330KV Transmission Line and needed a plant to supply power to key places in Abuja like State House, the Central Bank of Nigeria headquarters, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) headquarters, the Federal Secretariat, and the entire Central Business District. Nnaji, an industrial and mechanical engineering professor, led a small team of Nigerian engineers to take up the challenge. The 22MW Abuja Emergency Power Plant was commissioned by Vice President Atiku Abubakar in 2001, and its performance was to be rated excellent.

Impressed by this achievement, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the newly appointed Minister of Finance, and the visiting World Bank president, James Wolfonsohn, asked Nnaji in March 2003 if he could consider building a 50MW gas-fired plant to assist low, medium, and large manufacturing firms in Aba whose greatest impediment to full industrialization was poor electricity. He readily accepted. The size of the plant is now 188MW, and is embedded in a power distribution company that evacuates its electricity – Aba Power which is now the 12th DisCo in Nigeria.  In addition, it has a 27-kilometre gas pipeline from Owaza in Ukwa West Local Government Area to the Osisioma Industrial Estate in Aba. The Geometric Power group boasts Nigeria’s most advanced power infrastructure, including its steel tubular poles that can withstand any earthquake and are found only in world-class cities like San Francisco and Tokyo that are natural disaster-prone.

Nigeria is grappling with its most difficult socioeconomic challenges, and local as well as international confidence in its capacity is at an all-time low. Nigerians need to learn at least two related things from Bart Nnaji, Commander of the Niger (CON) winner, Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) laureate, Fellow of the Academy of Science (FAS), Fellow of the Academy of Engineering (FAEng), etc: faith in the Nigerian possibility and the value of boundless optimism. All Nigerians wish Nnaji many more years of good health, wisdom, and service to God and the country.

Adinuba, Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment (2018-22), is a management and leadership researcher.

By Chijioke Ogbodo

Today marks a significant milestone as Professor Bart O. Nnaji, FAS, FAEng, CON, NNOM celebrates his 68th birthday— a moment that beckons reflection on the remarkable journey and enduring legacy of this eminent figure within the realms of engineering, power, and public service. His narrative serves as a testament not only to personal achievement but also to the broader landscape of national progress and continental resilience.

Early Academic Journey and Engineering Pursuits

Professor Bart Nnaji’s academic trajectory was marked by a profound commitment to excellence and innovation from the outset. His pursuit of a doctoral degree in Engineering from Virginia Tech laid the foundation for a distinguished career characterized by technical acumen and visionary foresight. Complementing this accomplishment was his post-doctoral research in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), underscoring his engagement with cutting-edge technologies and his relentless drive for future advancements.

Bart Nnaji

Transitioning into academia, Nnaji’s tenure as a Professor of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at the University of Massachusetts and later as the William Kepler Whiteford Professor of Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh showcased his dedication to knowledge dissemination and pioneering research. Notably, his leadership in coordinating the United States National Science Foundation (NSF) Center for e-Design exemplified his ability to bridge theoretical rigor with practical application, shaping the landscape of engineering disciplines for generations to come.

Revolutionizing Nigeria’s Power Sector: A Trailblazing Legacy

In Nigeria, Bart Nnaji’s legacy is most prominently etched in the power sector, where his impact has been nothing short of transformative. As the Founder and Chairman of Geometric Power Limited, he spearheaded a paradigm shift towards private sector participation in an industry historically monopolized by the state. Geometric Power’s emergence as Nigeria’s premier private power company heralded a new era of efficiency and innovation in power generation and distribution, setting a precedent for sustainable models of energy provision in the region.

His pivotal roles as the Special Adviser to the President of Nigeria on Power and as the Federal Minister of Power between 2010 and 2012 coincided with a pivotal phase in Nigeria’s energy landscape. The development of the influential Roadmap for Power Reform under his stewardship signaled a comprehensive restructuring aimed at remedying entrenched inefficiencies and bolstering energy capacity. Noteworthy among its initiatives was the privatization of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), a transformative step designed to combat inefficiencies and catalyze a more robust and accessible power sector.

Strategic Leadership and Holistic Reforms

Young Bart Nnaji

Beyond instituting technical and infrastructural changes, Bart Nnaji’s strategic vision for Nigeria’s power sector was encapsulated in his leadership roles. Serving as the Pioneer Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Power, he laid the groundwork for a series of reforms geared towards enhancing power reliability, accessibility, and economic growth. Emphasizing the imperative of synergizing public and private endeavors, Nnaji’s multifaceted approach aimed at fostering sustainable development through collaborative initiatives that transcended mere systemic restructuring.

Furthermore, his advocacy for policies that prioritized not just infrastructural enhancements but also human capital development within the power sector underscored his holistic approach to capacity building. Nnaji’s foresight extended towards nurturing local talents and empowering the next generation of Nigerian engineers and policymakers, ensuring a legacy of innovation and efficiency that endures beyond his tenure.

Acknowledgments and Distinctions

The array of accolades and honors bestowed upon Professor Nnaji stands as a testament to his unparalleled contributions and impact. From the U.S. Secretary of State’s Distinguished Public Service Award in 1995 to the prestigious Baker Distinguished Research Award by the International Institute of Industrial Engineers in 2001, his work has garnered recognition on both national and international stages. His memberships and Fellowships in esteemed institutions such as the Nigerian Academy of Science and Nigerian Academy of Engineering serve as further testament to his esteemed status within professional communities.

Nnaji’s commitment to public service extended beyond the confines of the power sector, as exemplified by his tenure as Federal Minister of Science and Technology in 1993. He had to reassemble the ministry, which had been previously abolished. His appointment marked the reestablishment of the ministry. In this role, his initiatives were pivotal in aligning Nigeria’s technological ambitions with actionable strategies, fostering a culture of innovation and progress within the scientific community.

Cultural Embrace and Traditional Influences

Professor Nnaji’s influence transcends domains of industry and academia, resonating deeply within cultural spheres and societal fabric. Bestowed with traditional titles such as Echeribe, Onwa Nkanu, and Aka Ji Oku Ndi Igbo, his integration into the cultural tapestry of Enugu and beyond symbolizes his status as not only an industrial luminary but also a custodian of heritage and community development. These titles serve as affirmations of his role in preserving cultural identity and fostering social cohesion alongside his professional endeavors.

Educational Stewardship and Scientific Advocacy

Nnaji’s impact on education and science policy has been profound and far-reaching. His incumbency as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Board of Bells University of Technology since 2018 has been instrumental in steering the institution towards academic excellence and relevance in technological education. Additionally, his position as Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Nigeria Prize for Science, sponsored by Nigeria LNG, underscores his commitment to nurturing scientific research and innovation within the national landscape, aligning educational outcomes with developmental imperatives.

Pan-African Perspectives and Regional Development Efforts

Central to Bart Nnaji’s vision has always been a pan-African outlook, directed towards uplifting not only Nigeria but the continent at large. His tenure as Chairman of the South East Region Economic Development Corporation (SEREDEC) exemplifies his broader aspirations for regional growth and integration. By imparting strategic insights and guiding policies to spur economic progress across the South Eastern region of Nigeria, Nnaji’s contributions have laid foundations for replicable models of development that transcend national borders.

Conclusion

As Professor Bart Nnaji commemorates his 68th birthday, his journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership. Beyond the confines of career milestones or industrial reforms, his legacy encapsulates the essence of progress — the conversion of potential into tangible advancements. His methodologies have always been synergistic, combining technical proficiency, strategic acumen, and an unwavering dedication to societal betterment.

In honoring Professor Nnaji’s legacy today, we not only commemorate his achievements but also the enduring ethos and unwavering commitment to excellence that define his life’s work. His impact underscores the significance of strategic foresight, inventive spirit, and the profound influence that a single individual’s dedication can wield over a nation’s trajectory towards energy security, technological advancement, and sustainable development. As we gaze towards the horizon, the foundations laid by Bart Nnaji will undoubtedly continue to serve as cornerstones in propelling Nigeria towards a future defined by empowerment and progress. Gmtnewsng

Chijioke Ogbodo, a veteran broadcaster, is Managing Partner at GMTNewsng