GR Diary
Hon. Chukwuemelie Lambert Agu Transforming Housing Development in Enugu: From Civil Service to Private and Profit Oriented Perspective
Driven by the determination to always keep moving, Honourable CHUKWUEMELIE LAMBERT AGU, as a high achiever, figured out the solutions to housing development in Enugu State, writes IKENNA OLUKA
The people who wish to achieve something are always action-oriented. When they feel like work needs to be done, they do it without asking too many questions and ensure that the work is done on time.
Driven by the outcome and the determination to always keep moving, high achievers try to figure out all the possible solutions for their work beforehand.
This analogy perfectly describes the personality of Honourable Chukwuemelie Lambert Agu General Manager/CEO, Enugu State Housing Development Authority (ESHDC).
Background Check:
Hon. Chukwuemelie Lambert Agu, until his appointment as the GM/CEO of Enugu State Housing Development Corporation (ESHDC), was a successful business manager/administrator. He was recruited into the public sector by the present Executive Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to be the GM/CEO of ESHDC April 2016.
His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Governor Enugu State with the team from Enugu State Housing Development Corporation (ESHDC), led by the GM/CEO, Hon. CHukwuemelie Agu, during a project inspection
He attended St. Patrick’s Secondary School, Emene, Enugu; University of Nigeria, Nsukka and Enugu State University of Science & Technology.
Hon. Chukwuemelie has over 20 years of choice management experience from various positions held in top flight Businesses.
For high achievers, optimism comes naturally. They focus on what is good and offer good vibes in return. Being optimistic leads to a better mindset that everyone needs to fulfill their goals.
No wonder, on his assumption of office as the General Manager/CEO of Enugu State Housing Development Corporation, Hon. Agu swiftly and almost simultaneously embarked on the development of more than 6 estates within 18 months! Starting from Transparency Estate to Heritage, WTC-Citadel 1&2 to Rangers 1&2 and many others, all he and the team have done simply implies enabling people to develop these estates themselves. They provide them with communal living- gated-apartments, water, electricity and other facilities.
His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Governor Enugu State with the team from Enugu State Housing Development Corporation (ESHDC), led by the GM/CEO, Hon. CHukwuemelie Agu, during a project inspection
ESHDC under Hon. Agu’s leadership also gives them little time to develop; therefore, within one year to two years. The transformation he brought to bear ensures the Corporation now works with only the willing and capable people to develop these estates.
The Impact:
High achievers create a plan for long-term goals and focus on it. You will find them going back and forth from the present to their planned future quickly.
Before now, we were seeing heavy congestion in Enugu which was not there when we were young and growing. Thus, ESHDC under Hon. Agu’s dispensation initiated projects developing the outward parts of the metropolis. They wanted a situation where value is added to the out-sketch of the State. In places like the United States, you see people drive 30minutes to an hour to go to work and still go back. That is the intent with projects located to aid people who can come from Abakpa, Awkunanau, Four-Corner, Nsukka to attend to their daily activities in the metropolis and still go back for a 20 to 30minutes drive.
The future is bright; “basically, we are laying the foundation for those coming after us to think and develop better”, Hon. Chukwuemelie Agu said in one of his interviews with the press. “Technology has improved in the housing sector too. However, you can’t do much without adequate funding. With the number of estates we are developing during my dispensation is going to add values to what my predecessors have done. Many of them we have served in this capacity did creditably well. What this means is that with time, people can afford to have enough funds to maintain the old estates and dig into the future.
Hon. Agu with the energized staff of ESHDC
“Because land is a scarce commodity, currently, we are trying to discuss with communities where lands are sold at N200,000 or N400,000, so we want to develop estates around them which will automatically add value to the remaining lands. This will also accord them security; normally, we have armed security personnel for all our estates. Apart from that, you are bringing people from different spheres of life to the communities.
“With that, the economy of that community will go up; shops, markets, schools, hotels, and other demands will come up. So, the future is bright for the housing sector in Enugu State. Already, we have 36 estates. With the grant rents, service charges, there will be enough funds to maintain existing estates and develop new ones.
From the foregoing, it is obvious that Hon. Agu came prepared. His well-drafted plans have added value to the Enugu State economy at large.
There is no stopping for high achievers. They deal with exponential growth because they do not like being slowed down!
Hon. Agu has pushed the boundaries. He has pursued projects, building for everybody depending on what the market says. ESHDC under his leadership has developed some ‘nucleus apartments’ in some of the estates. Also, in some estates, people have not started developing their property; they have encouraged them by building in some of them. That shows the human face of this government.
ESHDC has built some 4-bedroom terrace apartment; which is not common in the country. In some they are developing 2-3bedrooms terraces.
The cost of land is high now which could be chief among the reasons they are building terrace forms which will give us more houses in small portions of land.
Before our eyes, Hon. Agu is leading a housing revolution based on his dream of developing a new city entirely. The partners- investors must be appreciated too for selecting Enugu; assisting the government to achieve this.
If you ever wonder how someone gets from the lower level of the hierarchy up to the top, it is all because of their attitude towards opportunities.
Hon. Chukwuemelie Lambert Agu was presented an Award of Appreciation by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Enugu State for his contribution and support towards football development in Enugu State and as the man of the people….December 2021
Never underestimate what the world has to offer you. Be keen on availing different chances since you never know how they can benefit you.
High achievers are always on a lookout for new and better opportunities for themselves, and you need to follow their lead!
Let’s keep supporting Hon. Chukwuemelie Lambert Agu for the development of our State.
How can Africa remain safe and powerful in a world being rapidly redefined by Artificial Intelligence?
That pressing question will take centre stage at the 13th Digital Africa Conference & Exhibition (DACE), scheduled for October 28–29, 2025, in Abuja.
The two-day gathering will be anchored by two powerhouse keynote speakers: Dr. Armstrong Takang on Day 1 and Prof. Latif Ladid on Day 2, each bringing unique expertise to Africa’s digital sovereignty conversation.
Dr. Armstrong Takang, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), will open the conference with a keynote that situates Africa’s digital sovereignty within the broader context of economic reform, institutional innovation, and strategic governance.
A consummate professional and visionary thinker, Dr. Takang has spent decades bridging the gap between public reform and private investment across Africa and the United States. Before his current role at MOFI, he served as Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, where he led the MOFI Transformation Team.
His career includes leading Growth Alliance Partners (GAP), a pan-African firm that helped turn around several businesses to create shareholder value, and working at KPMG in New York.
He has been instrumental in designing and implementing key national initiatives such as the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), the Voluntary Asset and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS), and the ICT components of EFCC/NFIU systems.
Dr. Takang has also chaired national ICT committees and contributed to landmark policies, including Nigeria’s Content Development in ICT and the country’s 50-year Development Plan. His keynote will highlight how digital and financial sovereignty intersect to secure Africa’s long-term competitiveness.
On the other hand, Prof. Latif Ladid, Founder & President of the IPv6 Forum and Chair of the AI & Blockchain Global Forum, brings decades of global leadership in internet architecture, digital policy, and emerging technologies.
His expertise spans across pivotal roles from IEEE Future Networks to the Internet Society, 3GPP, and EU research on next-generation networks.
Organizers say his keynote will set the tone for the conference, unpacking how Africa can assert digital sovereignty, safeguard its data, and lead in shaping the ethics and standards of AI on the global stage.
“This year’s theme, ‘Sovereign Intelligence: Africa’s Voice in the Global Digital Order,’ isn’t just a concept, it’s a necessity,” said Dr. Evans Woherem, Chairman of Digital Africa Consult. “Prof. Ladid’s keynote will highlight what it takes for Africa to remain safe, independent, and powerful in the new AI era.”
At a time when global powers are racing to define AI norms and secure digital dominance, Africa risks being left behind if it fails to act. Much of its technology remains imported, its data stored abroad, and its languages invisible in mainstream AI systems.
DACE 2025 is designed to change this narrative, by equipping Africa with the tools, strategies, and partnerships to become a proactive co-author of the digital future.
The conference will feature high-level dialogues on digital sovereignty, policy innovation, and cross-border cooperation, alongside exhibitions of homegrown startups, developer workshops, and showcases of African-built AI tools for health, agriculture, finance, and education.
Beyond the panels and showcases, DACE 2025 is expected to produce a concrete roadmap for Africa’s digital sovereignty.
“This isn’t just about technology,” noted Woherem. “It’s about agency, safety, and independence. With Prof. Ladid setting the stage, we hope to leave Abuja with a united vision of Africa’s place in the global AI order.”
With delegates expected from across Africa and the world, the two-day gathering promises to be a defining moment in the continent’s digital journey.
Nigerian Export Promotions Council, NEPC, played a significant role at the just concluded maiden Lagos Trade Fair. NEPC, enhanced the export capabilites of entrepreneurs at the Fair.
Nancy Okpa and Olamide Olatunde, both Senior Trade Officers from NEPC, equipped the entrepreneurs with knowledge and skills necessary for international trade.
The Vendors learnt the step by step export procedures. They also gained insight to the importance of compliance with international standards.
Monalisa Abimbola Aze, a lawyer turned entrepreneur whose company Mona Matthews curated the event expressed appreciation for developing the export capabilites of entrepreneurs and providing them access to international markets.
She said the ” Vendors will be more confident and equipped to navigate the exportation process.”
“Through exportation entrepreneurs can expand their businesses and access global market.”She added.
Olori Janet Afolabi, a Publisher and Queen of Apomu Kingdom, who collaborated with Azeh on the event, commended NEPC for its effort to reduce Nigeria economic vulnerability to oil price fluctuation by promoting non oil exports.” She said through exportation there will be increased foreign exchange earnings”
Apart from NEPC, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control, NAFDAC , officials also attended the Trade Fair to sensitise entrepreneurs on the need to register their products.
The event drew a large crowd and sparked entrepreneurial growth.
Aze, said ” I am overwhelmed by the success of the event We are grateful for the enthusiasm from Vendors who showcased their products and services with passion..
The event has shown that with determination and hard work we can create a lasting impact and provide opportunities for growth and expansion of businesses and services “
Olori Afolabi described the event as a great first attempt ” It exceeded my expectations.It was incredible to see entrepreneurs come together to celebrate enterprise and innovations. The energy was amazing. We look forward to building on this momentum.”
Vendors at the Fair expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the opportunities provided by the event.Many of them reported increased visibility, valuable connections and potential business deals.
One of them, Enobong Ezekiel, CEO / Founder Coreal8 said “l am honoured to have been a part of this experience. I was able to connect with many customers and partners.The organisers did an incredible job of creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere that allowed us to showcase our services”
The event held on 6th and 7th September at Yard 158, Kudirat Abiola Way, Ikeja Lagos.
The two day event brought together about 100 versatile Vendors, showcasing a wide range of products and services in fashion, food, lifestyle, technology and beauty.The event featured food courts, entertainment and games, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
Many visitors attended the Fair Prominent among them is Tope Alabi a popular gospel musician.
The Fair which showcased the entrepreneurial strength of Lagos is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy .
LifePointe and Surge, the vibrant youth expressions of The Elevation Church, will host The Hangout 2025 on Saturday, September 13, 2025, across four locations simultaneously.
This free, one-day gathering is designed for singles (20+) who desire meaningful, faith-based connections in an atmosphere of worship, fun, and intentional conversations.
In a culture dominated by fleeting trends and surface-level connections, The Hangout 2025 offers a refreshing alternative: a safe, Christ-centered space for singles to engage in authentic conversations, intentional fellowship, and spiritual growth.
Tagged “Same Energy” as it happens at 4 locations on the same day, The Hangout 2025 promises an exciting mix of music, inspiration, and community. Attendees will be inspired by Godman Akinlabi, Bola Akinlabi, Busola Wale-Siyanbola, Dave Ugbor, Phillip Olubakin, Emmanuella Mike-Bamiloye, Bowale Kotun, Seun Afolayan, and Debo Omotunde, while enjoying powerful performances from internationally acclaimed gospel artist Limoblaze, Greatman Takit, Gospel Force, DJ Horphuray, DJ Sammy, and Tkeyz.
“The Hangout is not just another singles event; it is a movement to help young people build relationships anchored on biblical principles, emotional maturity, and Godly standards,” said Pastor Godman Akinlabi, Global Lead Pastor of The Elevation Church “We believe this gathering will empower a generation of believers to form covenant marriages that reflect God’s design.”
At its core, The Hangout 2025 is designed to help singles connect with like-minded believers who share a vision for covenant marriages, while also creating opportunities to learn biblical principles for dating, courtship, and intentional relationships.
The programme will further equip attendees with wisdom, emotional maturity, and spiritual preparedness for marriage, fostering the growth of a supportive community that values accountability and upholds Godly standards.
The event will hold on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Pistis Conference Centre in Lekki, Lagos, with simultaneous gatherings at Maryland, Ibadan, and online. A subsequent edition will be hosted in Abuja on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Each event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with free admission for singles aged 20 and above. Interested participants are encouraged to register online at elevationng.org/hangout25
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