Leadership often demands resilience, intellect and compassion and one of those that stands tall as a beacon of excellence in this area is Hon. (Dr) Mrs. Euphemia Nneka Nwali JP. Her life is a testament to the power of vision, courage and commitment to public service. As a leader, she has reshaped the political and social landscape of Ezza South Local Government Area (LGA) in Ebonyi State and has become a true trailblazer, not just for her community, but for the entire nation.
Born into the illustrious family of Chief Jacob Ugbala in Amudo, Ezza South, Mrs. Euphemia Nwali grew up with the virtues of integrity and diligence deeply ingrained in her. From a young age, her brilliance was evidenced both academically and socially, as she naturally assumed leadership roles in various capacities. Her early education at Community Primary School Amudo laid the foundation for her future, and by 1996, she had excelled at Girls High School, Ezzillo, earning her West African School Certificate.
She pursued further education at Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana where she obtained both a National Diploma (ND) and a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Secretarial Studies between 1997 and 2001. She later acquired a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Administration from Ebonyi State University in 2017. Her academic journey reached its pinnacle when she was conferred a Doctorate by the University of Theology/Seminary, Port Harcourt, on 16th March 2024.
Dr. Euphemia Nwali’s foray into the political arena was nothing short of stellar. In 2008, she embarked on her formal political career when she was elected as the Ebonyi State Treasurer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Over the span of seven years, she demonstrated exceptional administrative competence, fiscal responsibility and strategic foresight. Her tenure as State Treasurer left an indelible mark on the political framework of the PDP in Ebonyi, and her reputation as a trustworthy and dynamic leader began to take root.
Her success as Treasurer paved the way for her appointment as the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in 2015. In this role, she not only revived the cultural heritage of the state but also promoted tourism as a vehicle for economic growth. Recognizing her remarkable capacity for governance, she was reappointed in 2016 as Commissioner for Water Resources and she spearheaded initiatives that addressed critical issues in water supply and resource management that significantly improved the quality of life of residents of Ebonyi State.
Her ability to lead from the front, combined with her profound understanding of grassroots politics, let to her appointment as the first female Caretaker Chairman of Ezza South LGA in 2020. Her leadership during this period was marked by decisive action, peacebuilding and social interventions aimed at improving the welfare of the people. Her commitment to community development led to her appointment as a member of the Ebonyi State Universal Basic Education Board and served till 2021 when she was elected as the Ebonyi State Deputy Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC).
In August 2022, Hon. Euphemia Nwali was overwhelmingly elected as the Executive Chairman of Ezza South LGA. On assumption of office, she immediately set to work, driving an agenda of transformative governance. Under her leadership, Ezza South witnessed unprecedented infrastructure development, with new roads, schools and healthcare facilities built to meet the needs of the people. Her administration focused on key areas such as peace and security, human empowerment and capacity building and provision of social amenities which laid the foundation for sustained socio-economic growth in the council.
One of her most lauded achievements has been the maintenance of peace and security within Ezza South LGA, despite the volatility of the broader region. Through her diplomatic acumen and inclusive leadership style, she fostered harmony among various communities. Her ability to bring people together, coupled with her pragmatic approach to governance, cemented her as a trusted figure in local and state politics.
Her re-election as Executive Chairman in August 2024 and subsequent swearing-in on September 1st, 2024, marked yet another chapter in her journey of exemplary leadership. The overwhelming support she received from her people was a testament to the positive change she had effected during her first tenure. The people of Ezza South, under her stewardship, have continued to enjoy improved social services, economic empowerment programmes and robust infrastructure development.
Hon. Dr. Euphemia Nwali is a compassionate humanitarian whose heart beats for the underprivileged and the marginalised. Her numerous philanthropic initiatives designed to empower women, youth and children, have won her accolades and recognition from both local and international organisations. At the heart of Dr. Nwali’s leadership is her deep-rooted faith in God. A devout Christian, she draws strength from her spiritual beliefs, which guide her in her decision-making and service to humanity.
Married to High Chief Aloysius Nwali of Nsokkara Community, Ezza South LGA, she enjoys a fulfilling family life and blessed with children. Her ability to balance her demanding political career with family responsibilities is a reflection of her strength, discipline and unshakable commitment to both her family and her community.
Hon. (Dr) Mrs. Euphemia Nneka Nwali JP is a leader par excellence. Her life and career embody the essence of service, dedication, and progress. She is a woman of remarkable intellect, formidable courage and boundless compassion. In Hon. Dr. Euphemia Nwali, the people of Ezza South have found a leader they can trust, a servant-leader who embodies the highest ideals of governance and a symbol of hope for a brighter future.
