Owerri, Imo State – In a historic and inspiring milestone for disability inclusion in Nigeria, Barrister Ihezue Samuel Chukwudi, a distinguished lawyer and disability rights advocate from Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, has been appointed as a Permanent Secretary in the Imo State Civil Service. His journey to this exalted position is not only a triumph of merit and perseverance but a resounding testament to the power of resilience, excellence, and inclusive governance.
His elevation marks a significant turning point in the representation of persons with disabilities (PWDs) within the highest echelons of the state civil service. It is a proud moment not just for the Imo Disability Community, but for all Nigerians who believe in equal opportunity, competence-based advancement, and the breaking of societal barriers.
From Humble Beginnings to Government Leadership
Barrister Chukwudi was called to the Nigerian Bar as a Solicitor and Advocate of the Supreme Court on May 14, 2002. Following his graduation from the Nigerian Law School, he participated in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme and was posted to the Ministry of Justice, Imo State, where he completed his service on August 19, 2003. Recognizing his brilliance and commitment, the then Governor, His Excellency Chief Achike Udenwa (fondly called Onwa), whose administration championed disability inclusion, offered him formal employment in the Ministry of Justice in October 2003.
What followed was a sterling career of over two decades, defined by excellence, integrity, and a tireless work ethic. Chukwudi’s service record is studded with awards, commendation letters, and recognitions for effective service delivery, including the prestigious Imo State Productivity Merit Award conferred by the Rochas Okorocha administration in June 2018.
By March 2024, he had risen through the ranks to become Director of Legal Services (GL 16), a position that underscored his outstanding contributions and the respect he had earned across the civil service.
A Competitive, Transparent Process to the Top
In April 2024, the Office of the Head of Service (OHOS), Imo State, opened applications for the coveted positions of Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service. Over 350 senior officers responded. After a meticulous screening process, 156 were shortlisted to participate in a rigorous competitive examination conducted on October 4, 2024, at the Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Governance, Owerri.
What set this process apart was its unprecedented transparency and credibility. The examinations were administered by a reputable consultancy firm from Abuja, monitored by officials from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and covered live by Channels Television, ensuring real-time accountability and openness.
Candidates were tested on practical computer applications—including Microsoft Word, Access, and PowerPoint—as well as on policy, governance, and administrative knowledge in a written exam. Barrister Chukwudi emerged as one of only 50 candidates to pass the examination and proceed to the oral interview, which was held on October 8, 2024.
From the final shortlist of 50, 24 officers emerged successful, with Barrister Chukwudi proudly placing 2nd overall in the highly competitive process. Their appointments were formally announced on May 7, 2025, by the OHOS, and they now await swearing-in and deployment to ministries, departments, and agencies.
A Triumph of Advocacy and Mentorship
In a heartfelt reflection, Chukwudi dedicated this remarkable achievement to Mr. Godson Okeoma, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, who he describes as a beacon of hope and his unwavering mentor since he joined the service.
“Mr. Okeoma made the appointment of PWDs into exalted positions like Permanent Secretaries not just possible, but a reality,” he said. “Posterity will forever remember him for his hard work, diligence, resilience, and unrelenting advocacy for disability inclusion in all spheres of life.”
He further thanked the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma (ONWA), describing him as the “most disability-friendly Governor in the country”, and an apostle of inclusive governance who believes in capacity, not pity.
“To be found worthy to serve in this capacity is a testament to the faith this administration has in the talents and contributions of PWDs,” he said. “I thank the Governor immensely for this honour and for championing a future where no one is left behind.”
A Voice for the Unseen, A Leader for the Marginalized
Throughout his career, Chukwudi has been a tireless advocate for disability rights, serving as a Disability Management Expert and a voice for inclusion. He has played key roles in mobilizing and mentoring other persons with disabilities, helping them to see beyond limitations and realize their potential.
“My life’s mission has been to encourage Imo PWDs and other Nigerians with disabilities to live beyond their challenges and tap into their inner potential,” he shared. “I have made sacrifices, offered service, and stood by my community—not for accolades, but for transformation. I’ve been an unsung hero, but today, God has chosen to sing my song to the world.”
He concluded his message with heartfelt gratitude to God Almighty:
“I remain eternally grateful to God for this elevation. Indeed, NA GOD WIN.”
A New Chapter for Disability Inclusion in Imo State
Chukwudi’s appointment is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of hope, a national case study for inclusive leadership, and a clarion call to other states to walk the talk on disability inclusion.
As he steps into this new role as Permanent Secretary, expectations are high. But if his career trajectory is anything to go by, Imo State can rest assured that excellence, accountability, and inclusive growth are on the horizon.
For Imo’s disability community and beyond, Barrister Ihezue Samuel Chukwudi’s story is a reminder that with grit, guidance, and good governance, the sky is not the limit—it’s only the beginning.
