By Ewere Okonta
08037383019
Hon. Tony Elekeokwuri, the Director General of the Delta State Investment Development Agency (DIDA), is not your regular politician. He embodies the qualities of both an aristocrat and a technocrat, seamlessly merging sophistication with expertise. Beneath this persona, however, lies a man driven by an unrelenting passion for his work, his people, and the principles of accountability. He is a change agent, one with a positively disruptive mindset that challenges the status quo—an approach that often unsettles traditional politicians who fear his intelligence and commitment to transparency.
Like many others, I once viewed him from a distance and assumed he was just another politician. However, that perception shifted drastically after spending two hours in his office, engaging in an insightful conversation that revealed his depth, vision, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of society. I saw firsthand a man with a clear mission, a man deeply invested in the progress of his people, and one who believes that leadership is not about occupying a position but about delivering tangible results that improve lives.
A Legacy in Legislative Excellence
Born in Umunede, Hon. Tony Elekeokwuri represented the good people of Ika North East in the Delta State House of Assembly from 2015 to 2023. During his tenure, he served as the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Finance, a role in which he left an indelible mark. His legislative achievements remain unparalleled, demonstrating a level of effectiveness and diligence rarely seen in public office. His tenure was marked by groundbreaking reforms in public finance, transparency, and accountability, setting a benchmark for future legislators to follow.
Through his work in the Assembly, Elekeokwuri sponsored and supported key legislation aimed at financial prudence and economic development. His relentless push for fiscal responsibility ensured that government expenditures were properly scrutinized, making him a beacon of accountability in the state legislature.
The Driving Force Behind His Success
Reflecting on his motivation, Elekeokwuri shared a defining moment from his early years in Lagos. “I saw skyscrapers and thought they were owned by the government. But when I discovered they were owned by individuals, I said, ‘Wow, I must work hard.’ That was it!” This realization ignited a fire within him to strive for excellence, shaping his career path and work ethic. It was this moment that propelled him to dream beyond limitations, to set higher goals for himself, and to embrace a mindset that anything is achievable through hard work and determination.
Throughout his career, Elekeokwuri has remained driven by a personal philosophy of excellence. He believes that the true measure of success is not in titles but in impact. This belief has guided his approach to governance, ensuring that every policy, decision, and project he undertakes leaves a lasting positive effect on his people.
A Vision for Economic Transformation
Elekeokwuri’s vision for Ika extends beyond politics. He is committed to unlocking the region’s economic potential through key projects, including:
– The Kaolin Deposit Project at Oza Nogogo – A strategic initiative aimed at tapping into the region’s rich mineral resources, creating industrial opportunities and generating employment.
– The Completion of the Umunede Rest Park Project – Designed to boost tourism and commerce, serving as a modern hub for travelers and traders.
– The Ute Ogbeje Fodder Farm Project – A critical project aimed at revolutionizing agriculture and livestock production, ensuring food security and economic sustainability.
According to him, these three initiatives will serve as catalysts for economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and fostering sustainable development in the Ika Nation. His dedication to these projects demonstrates his commitment to long-term economic transformation, ensuring that Ika’s development is not just rhetoric but a reality.
Redefining Youth Empowerment
When discussing youth empowerment, Elekeokwuri posed thought-provoking questions: “The ones we have empowered before—where are they? Can we truly track their progress? What did they do with the starter packs we gave them?” He emphasized the need for a sustainable approach to youth empowerment, one that ensures self-sufficiency and reduces political dependency.
“My vision for Ika youths is to see a day when, if politicians call for meetings on weekdays, they will not answer because they are busy at their duty posts, working for their means of livelihood. It frightens me as a politician to see our youths following politicians up and down, even during working hours,” he lamented.
He strongly believes that true empowerment is not about handouts but about creating opportunities for young people to build careers, develop businesses, and become self-reliant. To this end, he has championed skill acquisition programs, vocational training initiatives, and entrepreneurship support systems that equip young people with the necessary tools to thrive in today’s competitive world.
Confronting the Menace of Insecurity
On the issue of security, Elekeokwuri voiced deep concern over the activities of criminal Fulani herdsmen, whom he claims have taken over his family’s farmland. “My people can no longer go to the farm,” he stated, calling for a collaborative effort between the two local government areas, security agencies, and local vigilante groups to combat this growing threat.
He further stressed that economic development and security go hand in hand. Without a safe environment, businesses cannot thrive, and farmers cannot cultivate their lands. Therefore, he has been at the forefront of advocating for stronger security measures, community-driven solutions, and proactive government intervention to safeguard lives and property.
A Man Beyond Politics
From my personal assessment, Tony Elekeokwuri belongs to a rare class of Ika men—those who are deeply passionate about seeing Ika rise beyond political rhetoric. His pragmatic approach, commitment to economic development, and dedication to accountability make him a leader worthy of admiration. His vision is clear: a future where Ika Nation thrives not through political handouts but through self-sustaining economic initiatives that empower its people.
Elekeokwuri’s leadership philosophy is one that places the people at the center. He believes that true governance is about service, and he has demonstrated this through his policies, programs, and personal engagements with his constituents.
Hon. Tony Elekeokwuri is indeed a man defined by passion and excellence, a leader whose legacy will undoubtedly shape the future of Ika for generations to come. His journey is a testament to what is possible when leadership is approached with vision, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
Ewere Okonta is the CEO of EOB Media. He writes from the Department of Business Administration, University of Delta, Agbor.