By Izunna Okafor, Awka
Hon. Fidelis Nnazor is a leader whose impact on governance, community development, and economic transformation is both profound and far-reaching. As the Executive Chairman of Anambra West Local Government Area, he has redefined grassroots leadership through bold policies, infrastructural advancements, security interventions, and social welfare programs. His emergence as the Mayor of the Year 2025 by Eminent Magazine is a testament to his unwavering dedication to public service, his visionary approach to governance, and his ability to turn challenges into opportunities for his people.
Born on March 5, 1980, Hon. Nnazor’s early years were shaped by a commitment to discipline, education, and resilience. He began his academic journey at Akwuba Primary School, Okwumedo Utich, Delta State, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1993. He proceeded to Abor Grammar School, Delta State, where he completed his secondary education in 1999.
Determined to expand his knowledge, he pursued higher education at Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State, where he earned a Higher National Diploma in Marketing. His passion for leadership and governance later led him to Nasarawa State University, Keffi, where he obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Education—a move that reinforced his belief in education as a fundamental pillar of development.
Before venturing into politics, Hon. Nnazor built an impressive career in the corporate sector, earning a reputation for excellence and strategic leadership. From 2007 to 2022, he worked as a Manager at Daltrade Nigeria Limited, an international industrial and manufacturing company. His outstanding contributions earned him the Best Staff Award, cementing his status as a dynamic leader with a keen understanding of business operations and workforce management. Leveraging his expertise, he founded Polfid Nigeria Limited, where he serves as the Managing Director and CEO, creating employment opportunities and driving economic growth within and beyond Anambra West.
His journey into public service was a natural progression, given his deep-seated commitment to community development. Starting as the President General of Nzam, his exemplary leadership in uniting and advancing his hometown earned him state-wide recognition. His ability to bridge divides, initiate developmental projects, and foster inclusive governance led to his appointment as Special Adviser to the Anambra State Governor on Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters, and Community Affairs, a role that placed him at the forefront of grassroots governance. His strategic engagement with traditional rulers and community leaders laid the foundation for many of the transformative policies he would later champion.
Rising through the ranks, he was appointed Chairman of the Transition Committee for Anambra West LGA, and, in recognition of his leadership prowess, was later elected as the Executive Chairman. Under his administration, the local government has witnessed an unprecedented wave of development, covering key areas such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, transportation, agriculture, and economic empowerment.
One of his most impactful contributions has been in education. Recognizing the fundamental role of education in shaping the future, his administration has prioritized school renovations, teacher welfare, and student financial support. Many schools that were once in a state of disrepair have been transformed into modern learning environments, ensuring students have access to quality education. In addition, his administration has provided financial assistance to students from underprivileged backgrounds, covering tuition fees and registration costs for over 100 candidates sitting for the 2025 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination. His commitment to ensuring that no teacher is owed salaries sets Anambra West apart as a model for education governance and workforce management.
Beyond education, security has been a top priority for Hon. Nnazor. Anambra West, once plagued by security challenges, has now emerged as one of the safest LGAs in Nigeria, thanks to his multi-faceted approach to security. By fostering collaborations with state security agencies, empowering local vigilante groups, and actively engaging traditional rulers and youth leaders, he has curtailed crime rates and enhanced communal peace. His leadership has been instrumental in resolving longstanding communal conflicts, including the Ika-Inoma, Nzam-Umuenwelum Anam, and Odekpe-Alah-Onugwa disputes, where his mediation efforts brought lasting peace.
Hon. Nnazor has also spearheaded groundbreaking infrastructural projects, significantly improving transportation networks across the riverine communities of Anambra West. His administration successfully launched a pontoon boat, introduced speedboats, and initiated road rehabilitation projects, bridging previously disconnected areas and facilitating economic activities. The construction of the Nzam Bridge has further enhanced connectivity, while partnerships with Anambra State Transport Company (TRACAS) are set to revolutionize land transport.
His commitment to economic empowerment extends beyond infrastructure. He has prioritized agriculture, providing farmers with improved seedlings, access to soft loans, and agricultural training programs. Additionally, his market expansion projects, including the development of new trading centers in Umueze Anam and Odotamoka, have strengthened local commerce, ensuring a sustainable economic future for Anambra West.
Hon. Nnazor’s administration has not only transformed governance but has also revitalized tourism and youth engagement. His support for the Ani Asa Beach Festival in Oroma-Etiti has positioned Anambra West as an emerging cultural and tourism hub, drawing visitors and stimulating local businesses. His football tournament initiative in December 2024, which saw teams from different communities compete for cash prizes, was a game-changer in youth engagement, fostering unity, reducing restiveness, and promoting sportsmanship.
His impact in healthcare is equally commendable. Working in collaboration with the state government, his administration has ensured primary health centers are fully equipped with medical supplies and solar power installations. The completion of the Oroma-Etiti Anam General Hospital remains a priority, promising to bring advanced medical services to the people of Anambra West.
A recipient of numerous awards, Hon. Nnazor has been recognized for his exemplary leadership and transformative governance, including:
Worthy Ambassador Award (Anambra State Association of Town Unions)
Award of Honour (Federation of Anambra West Students Associations)
Exemplary Leadership Award (Revival Mandate, Anambra West)
His influence extends beyond politics. As an active member of the Igala People’s Assembly, Nzam Development Union, and the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), he continues to shape policies and advocate for progress.
Beyond his official duties, Hon. Nnazor is a man who values balance. He enjoys reading, swimming, and playing football, interests that reflect his well-rounded personality. He is not just a leader of policies but a leader of people, embodying vision, integrity, and a genuine passion for service.
As Mayor of the Year 2025, Hon. Fidelis Nnazor’s legacy is one of dedication, impact, and visionary leadership. His name will be remembered not just for the offices he held but for the lives he transformed, the communities he built, and the future he secured for Anambra West.
