By Lawrence Oleka Mon, 23 March 2026
The people of Bende experienced a historic milestone yesterday as the highly anticipated Project SWITCH ON BENDE was officially launched, featuring the commissioning of solar-powered street lights across key communities in the local government area. This project, embodying a new era of development, security, and progress, represents a decisive move toward ending years of darkness in the constituency.
The commissioning ceremony drew community leaders, youths, women’s groups, political stakeholders, and residents in large numbers to celebrate what many recognized as a clear demonstration of strong leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people. Speaking at the event, the project’s initiator, Hon. Iheanyi Frank Chinasa, Abia State Chief Liaison Officer Abuja, emphasized that the solar street light project aims to enhance security, stimulate nighttime economic activities, and renew hope for the people of Bende.
He highlighted that, for too long, many rural communities in Bende had been shrouded in darkness, hindering nighttime mobility and exposing residents to security threats. He affirmed that Project Switch On Bende is about more than installing lights; it’s about illuminating the future, creating an environment where businesses can flourish and communities can live free of fear.
His Excellency Gov. Alex C. Otti, represented by the Commissioner of Health Prof. Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, expressed gratitude to the people of Bende and Hon. Chinasa, reaffirming that Project SWITCH ON BENDE aligns perfectly with his administration’s transformative agenda to bring development directly to rural communities.
Hon. Ginger Obinna Onwusibe, Member representing Isiala Ngwa South/North in the Federal House of Representatives, assured that Gov. Alex Otti’s mandate for 2027 is already secured. He praised Hon. Chinasa for spearheading Project SWITCH ON BENDE and envisioned the positive impact when Chinasa is elected into political office. He urged the people of Bende to make the right decision in 2027.
Traditional rulers and community stakeholders lauded the initiative, underscoring its timeliness and profound impact. They affirmed that installing solar street lights will significantly reduce crime, promote night-time commerce, and enhance social life across the communities.
Founder of E.C.K Foundation, Dr. Emeka Charles Kalu, expressed immense joy as the streets illuminated immediately after the official switch-on, a moment celebrated with cheers and enthusiasm. In his words, Bende people are ready and in due time they’ll make a bold statement “mgbe amuru dike na mba ka amuru ibe ya” Residents unanimously viewed this development as a groundbreaking step toward even greater achievements, calling on leaders to emulate projects that truly transform lives.
The commissioning of Project SWITCH ON BENDE stands as a powerful testament that meaningful development is achievable when leadership is driven by vision, compassion, and a genuine love for the people. For Bende, the long night of darkness is swiftly giving way to a brighter, more hopeful future.
©️2026 E.C.K Media Team
