The late Dr. Sam Onunaka Mbakwe, fondly remembered as the “weeping governor” of old Imo State, remains a shining example of purposeful governance in Nigeria. In less than five years (1979–1983), Mbakwe laid down an industrial, infrastructural, and educational foundation that still dwarfs the combined achievements of almost 24 years of the Fourth Republic across the South-East. His tenure was not about aesthetics, token projects, or personal enrichment, but about laying down structures for mass employment, productivity, and regional pride.
Mbakwe’s Transformational Achievements
1. Educational Expansion
Imo State University (now Abia State University): A deliberate effort to provide higher education within the state and stop capital flight to other regions.
College of Technology Nekede (PolyNek): Today’s Federal Polytechnic Nekede, a hub producing engineers, technicians, and innovators.
College of Agriculture Umuagwo: A solid foundation for agro-based development and youth employment.
2. Industrialization
Mbakwe believed that industrial estates were the surest pathway to job creation. His legacy includes:
Aluminum Extrusion Industry, Inyisi, Ikeduru
Paper Packaging Industry, Orlu
Sacs Hercules Motorcycle Plant, Naze
Clay Industries, Ezinachi/Amuro, Okigwe
Nsu Tiles and Ceramics Industry, Mbano
Aluminum Smelter Plant, Inyishi
Resin Paint Factory, Mbaise
These industries provided direct jobs and spurred ancillary businesses, positioning Imo as an emerging industrial hub.
3. Hospitality and Infrastructure
Concorde Hotel, Owerri, a luxury hotel that became an international landmark.
Oguta Lake Motel and Abadaba Lake Resorts, designed to harness tourism and recreation.
Progress Bank and IBC Television Channel 59, pioneering steps in finance and media.
Road Networks: Mbakwe’s massive road development still serves Imo, Enugu, Abia, Anambra and Ebonyi states.
Owerri Airport (Sam Mbakwe Airport): The first state-owned airport in Nigeria, a bold testament to his foresight.
4. Energy and Utilities
Amaraku and Izombe Power Stations: Critical electricity backbones for industrial growth.
Sulo Waste Management System, Owerri: One of the earliest attempts at modern waste disposal in Nigeria.
5. Agriculture and Food Security
Avutu Poultry Farm, Obowo and Golden Chicken Poultry Farm, Ukwa – large-scale agricultural projects aimed at food sufficiency and employment.
In less than five years, with oil prices still modest, Mbakwe achieved what some entire regions haven’t achieved in decades.
Comparison with 24 Years of the Fourth Republic
Since 1999, the South-East has witnessed numerous administrations, but the focus has shifted to aesthetics over substance. Roads are resurfaced endlessly without industrial anchors. Flyovers are celebrated while industries lie moribund. Meanwhile, unemployment and youth despair continue to soar.
The painful truth is that despite greater federal allocations, loans, and internally generated revenue, most governors have failed to replicate even a quarter of Mbakwe’s legacy.
The Few Who Come Close
While most leaders have underperformed, three current governors deserve commendation for showing glimpses of Mbakwe’s spirit:
Gov. Hope Uzodimma (Imo State): His expansion of road infrastructure across the state, plans for 24/7 electricity, complete renovation and rehabilitation of the concorde hotel, now Imo concorde Hilton, the dredging of the Oguta Lake and connecting Orashi River aimed at reviving an economic sea route from Oguta to the Atlantic Ocean to boost trade, create jobs, and curb illegal activities in Imo State. But he must now prioritize industries that will employ thousand.
Gov. Alex Otti (Abia State): With his aggressive cleanup of Aba, commitment to revive Enyimba Economic City, and his early push for industrial rebirth, Otti is also on a trajectory that mirrors Mbakwe’s vision. Aba, under Otti, could again become the industrial capital of West Africa.
Gov. Peter Mbah (Enugu State): His bold plan for Enugu to achieve 24-hour power supply, his complete renovation of Presidential hotel, his resourcitation of Flour mills, Niger gas and his industrial hub initiatives show clear understanding that without energy and industries, there can be no sustainable growth.
The Central Problem of Today’s Governors
The tragedy of contemporary leadership is the obsession with aesthetics over productivity. Stadium renovations, endless street lights, and painted roundabouts have become substitutes for industries, farms, and research institutions. Mbakwe’s legacy teaches us that true governance means job creation first, because only jobs guarantee dignity, peace, and prosperity.
Until governors prioritize industrial estates, agro-allied factories, and technology hubs, the unemployment crisis will continue to fuel insecurity, poverty, and migration.
Ultimately
Sam Mbakwe was not a saint, but he governed with vision, courage, and empathy. His tears for his people were genuine, his projects practical, and his foresight unmatched. If today’s governors want to etch their names in history, they must return to the Mbakwe model: education, industries, infrastructure, and jobs.
The South-East, and indeed Nigeria, does not need more cosmetic projects. What we desperately need are leaders who can build factories, revive farms, generate power, and employ thousands.
That is the true tribute to Mbakwe’s legacy.
By Hon. Duruebube Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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