The President General of the Otolokpo Development Union (ODU), Barr. David Igbodo, AIG (Rtd.), has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to purposeful leadership, inclusive governance, and sustainable community development as Otolokpo Community steps into the year 2026.
Speaking in his New Year address on behalf of the people of Otolokpo Kingdom and under the revered leadership of His Royal Majesty, Obi Collins Ezeweali, Barr. Igbodo reflected on the challenges and accomplishments of 2025, describing the year as a period that tested the community’s resilience while affirming its collective capacity to deliver on promises.
According to him, despite prevailing economic and social difficulties, the ODU leadership recorded measurable progress in community development, service delivery, and participatory governance, stressing that the administration remained faithful to the mandate entrusted to it by the people.
“We remained steadfast to our mandate—restoring hope, delivering impact, and strengthening trust in local governance,” the ODU President General stated.
Looking ahead to 2026, Barr. Igbodo expressed renewed confidence and a clear sense of purpose, noting that feedback gathered from conferences, meetings, carnivals, and other community engagements—many of which he personally attended—has shaped the administration’s priorities for the new year.
He specifically commended the people of Otolokpo Kingdom for their cooperation in the ongoing renovation of the Otolokpo Town Hall, describing the project as a symbol of unity and shared heritage. Barr. Igbodo appealed for sustained support to ensure the successful completion and commissioning of the facility in March 2026, ahead of the hosting of Onuika, a major cultural event in the community.
“Together, we can deliver a facility that reflects our pride, heritage, and shared aspirations,” he said.
On governance and regulation, the ODU President General disclosed that all community policies and expectations would be firmly enforced in 2026 to promote healthy commerce, social order, and sustainable living, while efforts would be intensified in critical sectors affecting peace and development.
Security, he emphasized, remains a top priority of his administration. Barr. Igbodo pledged continued collaboration with security agencies, vigilante groups, forest guards, and community stakeholders through the provision of necessary support and infrastructure. He also urged residents to remain vigilant, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.
Reaffirming his leadership style, the retired Assistant Inspector General of Police assured residents that the ODU leadership remains open, accessible, and responsive to the needs and concerns of the people.
He concluded by thanking the people of Otolokpo Community for their resilience, cooperation, and active participation in development efforts, while offering prayers for divine protection, peace, good health, and prosperity in the new year.
Barr. Igbodo expressed optimism that with unity, shared responsibility, and sustained engagement, 2026 will usher in growth, stability, and collective achievement for Otolokpo Community and the entire Ika Nation.
