By Amarachi Ugochukwu
Reflecting on the growth and progress of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Imo State Chapter, it is fitting and necessary to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, for displaying magnanimity in recognizing and granting the immediate past State Chairman of NURTW, Hon. Samuel Udeh, FCAI JP (Ezeumuokorobia), the extraordinary honor of leading the Union for the past few years.
The Governor’s unwavering support to Udeh’s administration was indeed instrumental in fostering an environment conducive to the collective advancement and progress of the Union and its members.
His numerous and uncountable benevolent gestures extended to the Union had undeniably enriched the lives of Union Members and elevated the status of NURTW within Imo State.
To Udeh and his followers, Governor Uzodimma had evenly demonstrated high level of kindness, love, being a true democrat who is in the mission of redefining governance with a view to improving goodness, social development and economic prosperity in the state.
Without mincing words, it is germane to freely recount some of the remarkable things and opportunities that unfolded during Hon. Udeh tenure as State Chairman, particularly the Governor’s selfless magnanimity which include the Facilitation of a Pilgrimage for Union Members to the Holy Lands in Israel and Jordan.
The Pilgrimage in Israel and Jordan in 2023 was a spiritual journey that exposed and fostered, not only personal growth, but unity among the Union Members.
Truly, the people’s Governor had recognized the significance of the Union and the valid contributions of its Members to the goodness of the state by appointing some of them as Government Liaison Officers in the various communities in the state.
This nice gesture by the Governor seamlessly bridged communication between the Union and the State, ensuring that the voices of the Drivers were heard and valued.
In a particularly touching moment, I reminisced about the festive periods when the Governor generously provided Free Fuel to Commercial Drivers in Imo State, a gesture that alleviated financial burdens on the Drivers and amplified the spirit of brotherhood in them during the seasons of yuletide.
The champion of 3R administration no doubt deserves resounding accolades for his tireless efforts in addressing squarely the infrastructural deficits in the state.
The quality roads and bridges Uzodimma constructed across the state give impetus to safe traffic movement, a feat that saves cost as the Commercial Vehicle Drivers no longer frequent the mechanics for repairs.
To reiterate, these significant investments the 3R administration have made in road construction and repairs, had directly reduced the toll on Commercial Drivers especially – sparing them from the unwelcomed expenses of frequent mechanical failures.
On the other hand, I wish to seize this opportunity to commend Hon. Sam Udeh, whose tenure has been marked by extraordinary achievements and exemplary leadership.
Under Hon. Sam Udeh stewardship, NURTW has undergone a remarkable refinement, embracing progress and inclusivity.
His dedication to fostering camaraderie among Union Members has been nothing short of transformative, having consistently and cleanly demonstrated unwavering commitment, not only to the interests of the Union, but also to the welfare of each member and their families.
The Iho-Dimeze in Ikeduru born Chairman’s initiatives have fortified the Union’s Foundation, bringing about significant improvement that had reverberated positively throughout the community.
His commendable efforts in addressing the myriad challenges faced by transport workers have established a legacy of progress that will surely be talked about for years to come.
The scorecard of some achievements of Hon. Udeh recorded during his tenure, ranges from the Championing of the Construction of the Union’s State Secretariat, a testament to his vision and dedication, that will provide members with a Central Hub for enhanced operations.
Fostering of Peace and Camaraderie among Union Members by creating an environment of friendliness and cooperation that stands as a model for future leadership.
The Reinstatement of Women Wing of NURTW in the State. Empowered the Women with Interest Free Loan on rotation basis. These, in no small way, had empowered female drivers, ensuring their voices were integral to the Union’s narrative.
Organized Workshops aimed at educating Union Members on proper road usage and professional conduct, striving diligently to reshape the perception of Commercial Drivers from being mere touts to being esteemed professionals, earning respect and recognition within the wider society.
The friendly Chairman had succeeded in recalling Displaced and Unlawfully expelled Members of the Union.
He brought the Union closer to government and strengthened the relationship between the NURTW and the Law Enforcement Agencies.
Also, he admitted unconditionally, members of rival transport Union into NURTW. And ensured that they adhered and carried out instructions and directives of the National Secretariat of the Union.
Indeed, Udeh is chivalric, humanitarian and accommodating, little wonder he enforced donations to the Needy, particularly Motherless Babies, through the Motherless Babies Homes.
As champion of youth empowerment, he liberally employed more workers to the Union, a way of fighting unemployment among youths that had increased social vices in the society.
His high level of selflessness and integrity is so glaring, as he went as far as handing over to the State Police Command Passenger’s Huge Sum of Money Forgotten Inside one of the buses, for proper identification of the rightful owner.
Being an astute leader, Udeh was fairly elected as National Trustee of NURTW, a position he currently holds, which has given rise to him being a member of Internation Transport Federation, (ITF).
As a devout Chairman whose general compositions exhale of integrity, empathy, humility, friendliness, sagacity and love, Udeh has acquired to himself and the Union at large lots of prestigious awards from notable bodies.
It is worthy of note that his selflessly rich contributions to the State Union were unequivocal, for he had not only redefined the Union’s identity, but had also set a benchmark for future leaders to aspire to. His tenure serves as an inspirational template.
In an ideal state where the wheels of progress constantly turn, the achievements of Sam Udeh will undoubtedly ripple through the annals of the Union’s history, forever etched in the legacy of collective growth and unity.
Cogitating on his stellar contributions, I fervently express the hope that the Governor considers appointing Hon. Sam Udeh into another office in his government where his indomitable spirit for excellence would be further displayed.
