After his overwhelming victory as the 2025 NUJ Anambra State Man of the Year, Architect Okey Ezeobi, the GM/CEO, Anambra State Bureau of Public Procurement, hosted a team of journalists from the NUJ Anambra WatchDog Magazine of the NUJ Anambra State Council, led by Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD, NUJ Anambra State Chairman, for an in-depth interview in the architect’s office at Government House, Awka.
In the interview with NUJ WatchDog Magazine, Arc. Ezeobi spoke about growing up, building his private business, giving back to society, his involvement in government and his thoughts on Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s government.
“I’m a man helped by God,” he says, and when you hear his story, you won’t doubt it for a second.
Since the announcement as 2025 NUJ Anambra Man of the Year, Arc. Okey Ezeobi has been trending and winning more for the Bureau and for the state.
Just recently at the 2025 Nigeria GovTech Awards in Abuja, Anambra stood tall as the Bureau of Public Procurement clinched Excellence in Digital Public Procurement, while the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning was named Best State MDA in Technology-Driven Governance. Arc. Okechukwu Ezeobi, GM/CEO, BPP, and Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, Commissioner, Budget & Economic Planning, received Trailblazer Awards for exemplary leadership.
In the interview for NUJ WatchDog Magazine of the NUJ Anambra State Council captured by Emeka Chiaghana, Arc. Ezeobi was at his best in his answers. Excerpts:
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: How did you emerge as the GM/MD of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP)?
Okey Ezeobi: My appointment was quite unusual, almost surreal. I was driving from one project site to another in Abia State, where I was constructing a 100-bed hospital, when I received a call. The voice on the other end asked for my CV. Initially, I was puzzled. As an employer of labour and a consultant architect, I wasn’t actively looking for employment. But the caller was persistent, phoning me four or five times while I was still en route between Isi-Alangwa and Enugu.
Since I was driving, I called and told my wife what was happening and asked her to prepare and send my CV. Without even reviewing it, I forwarded it to the caller. Weeks later, I reached out to ask if they were recruiting a professional architect of Anambra origin, as I am a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects.
To my surprise, the caller congratulated me: that then-Governor Willie Obiano had appointed me as a Special Adviser. I was stunned. I hadn’t applied for any job. My reaction was lukewarm; I even told my wife that these politicians were probably just looking for attention.
The next day at work in Lagos, the same caller phoned again: “Okey, where are you? The Governor has been trying to reach you.” I explained that I didn’t have the Governor’s number. The caller insisted I come down to Anambra. My wife persuaded me to honour the invitation, saying that any governor who appoints someone he doesn’t know must genuinely mean well.
I attended the EXCO retreat in Awka organised by the state government, planning only to thank Governor Obiano and return to Lagos that same day. I sat by the door, a stranger in the hall, waiting for a chance to say thank you and leave. But the retreat captivated me. Speakers like Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, former acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, and Fela Durotoye spoke. Their words resonated with me. I postponed my return flight. That day, I saw a different kind of political leadership. It changed me and my perception of political positions. That’s how I accepted Governor Obiano’s appointment.
After my tenure with Governor Obiano, I returned to Lagos. Then, one day, I received a call from Professor Chukwuma Soludo. He had become Governor and wanted me to head the BPP. I told him, frankly, I wasn’t interested. I preferred my private life. I left his house thinking that was the end of it.
Soon, calls started pouring in — from prominent people in my community, from elders. A prominent figure like Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene, the Mbuze of Nanka, went as far as saying that turning down such a position was unthinkable, jokingly adding that Nanka people would bury me alive for rejecting such a privilege to serve the state. Even a woman I have never met called and said in our Nanka dialect, “We know God has blessed you, but our poor people need you. Go because of us.” That call struck a deep chord. I discussed it with my wife, and she said maybe it was God’s will. I called Governor Soludo back and apologised. He was pleased I had reconsidered. Days later, my appointment was announced.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: Any regrets about taking the job?
Okey Ezeobi: None whatsoever. This is the best political job in the world, and it’s because I work for a rare leader. Governor Soludo never interferes. In three years, he’s never called to ask me to award a job to anyone. Not once. Every contract in Anambra is usually through competitive bidding, and we always secure the best value.
Under this administration, Anambra became the first state to win a $2.5 million grant from the World Bank for transparent procurement practices. We’ve saved billions. That’s how Governor Soludo funds his transformational projects. No contract padding. No political pressure. Just transparency and results.
In just three years, he has completed over 500 kilometres of roads. He initiated the first-ever road dualization in the state, spanning over 70 kilometres. His results dwarf the combined efforts of the last three administrations. That’s the kind of leadership I’m proud to serve under.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: What changes have you introduced to the BPP, especially regarding transparency and accountability?
Okey Ezeobi: Everything we do is online. Every project, every price. We encourage the public to scrutinise us. For instance, when we awarded a solar streetlight contract in Awka, people questioned the pricing. I told them: if you can do it cheaper, it’s open. No one came forward. That’s transparency.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: Can you highlight key reforms and milestones at the BPP under your leadership?
Okey Ezeobi: One case stands out. A man won a borehole project purely on merit. He didn’t believe it was real. He thought it was a scam. It took several calls before he accepted the offer. That’s the new Anambra. No lobbying. No bribery. Just qualification and merit.
We’ve also become a continental model. The World Bank asked Liberia and The Gambia to study Anambra’s procurement system as a template while setting up their own institutions. That’s not just a win for us; it’s a win for Africa.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: Public procurement is key to good governance. What challenges have you faced enforcing due process?
Okey Ezeobi: Documentation. Many qualified contractors are excellent in execution but lack proper tax records. We insist on compliance. You can’t access taxpayers’ money if you don’t pay tax. It’s non-negotiable.
Another issue is bid pricing. We don’t award contracts to the cheapest bidder, but to the most responsive. For example, if cement is selling for ₦9,000 and someone quotes ₦7,000, we know they’re likely to come back for variations. We factor in taxes, overheads, and profit margins. Contractors now understand we want realistic pricing. That’s why there are no abandoned projects in Anambra. We pay promptly. No contractor is owed. Ask around.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: Governor Soludo envisions Anambra as a smart, livable, prosperous homeland. What gives you the most hope?
Okey Ezeobi: Let me give you a real example. An Anambra indigene living in Port Harcourt recently came home and was shocked. He travelled from Uga to Ekwulobia and didn’t even realise it, because the roads were that smooth. In just three years, communities that were once isolated are now connected. The Amawbia–Ekwulobia dual carriageway, Agulu–Okija road, and access from Awka to Umunze now take a fraction of the time.
This progress gives me hope. If this is what we can achieve in three years, imagine what Anambra will look like in eight years.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: How would you assess the level of cooperation your bureau receives from other MDAs in achieving Governor Soludo’s vision for Anambra?
Okey Ezeobi: Let me use this analogy: Jesus once said, “I only do what I see my Father do.” In the same way, every organisation or state functions in alignment with its leader. Governor Soludo sets the standard. If you can’t keep pace with his vision, you’ll naturally fall behind. Every MDA has had to rise to the challenge, sharpen its processes, and align with the Governor’s policies. That’s the only way he wants the job done.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: What strategic innovations or digital reforms have you introduced to improve procurement processes and curb corruption?
Okey Ezeobi: One major reform we introduced was centralised project monitoring. Previously, individual agencies conducted separate inspections, often leading to inconsistencies and loopholes. I insisted on joint monitoring. Everyone inspects together, seeing, measuring, and signing off on-site in front of the contractor. This eliminated corruption, minimised negotiation attempts, and drastically cut inspection times. Contractors appreciate the transparency.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: Recently, President Tinubu introduced the “Nigeria First” policy, mandating local procurement. Is Anambra adopting this? Also, what is the status of the railway project Governor Soludo announced in 2023?
Okey Ezeobi: Railway development isn’t a short-term venture. Planning alone takes 4–5 years. Governor Soludo recently informed President Tinubu during his visit that we now have a full railway master plan. In fact, my own home in Nanka is on the proposed rail line and will be demolished. My wife and I accepted this as our sacrifice for progress.
As for “Nigeria First,” the President said “Nigeria First,” not “Nigeria Only.” There are areas where only Nigerians can deliver. We follow that principle. For example, when we sought a payment solution for Fun City, Awka, an Anambra indigene presented a solid proposal. I said, “If he’s qualified and his product meets our standards, give him the opportunity.” That’s localising national policy at the state level.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: In a digital era, how important is timely dissemination of procurement information? How do you ensure bidders get timely updates?
Okey Ezeobi: It’s absolutely crucial. Anyone interested can simply visit the Anambra Procurement website. Every opportunity available for bidding is published there in real time. We ensure it’s continuously updated so no serious bidder is left uninformed.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: The Solution Lens initiative was launched May 15, 2025. Was your bureau integrated into it?
Okey Ezeobi: Absolutely. The Solution Lens is a digital platform designed to enhance transparency and citizen engagement in governance. Everything related to the Solution Lens passed through the BPP. We’re fully involved in its rollout and implementation, hence the recent awards under the transformational leadership of Governor Soludo guided by the “technology, technology everywhere” mantra. Our bureau stood tall on excellence in digital public procurement.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: Any plans to run for public office?
Okey Ezeobi: I hear that a lot, especially since being named 2025 NUJ Anambra Man of the Year. Someone once told me that it was the first time her vote truly counted, and she had voted for me. She asked if it was a sign, but I said no. Still, I’m human. Only God can use the word “never.”
The truth is, I can’t imagine working under anyone who isn’t like Governor Soludo. He gave me full autonomy and a platform to make meaningful impact. Even my children initially found it hard, as this job took me away from them. I’m a family man. My hobby is spending time with them. So, as of today, public office isn’t on the menu.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: Legacy is everything in leadership. What legacy do you hope to leave behind, and what advice would you give young professionals?
Okey Ezeobi: My mission is to institutionalize procurement in Anambra State. In America, institutions, not individuals, sustain governance. I want the same here. When I’m done, there should be a system that even I can’t manipulate — a transparent, accountable, and fully digitalised procurement structure.
Everything must be published, accessible, and understandable to Ndi Anambra. If a figure looks inflated, they should demand a breakdown, and they’ll find it. Once this institution is entrenched, future leaders will have no choice but to follow it. That’s my legacy.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: Can Governor Soludo champion human capital development by training professionals like planners and statisticians in procurement?
Okey Ezeobi: Yes, and it’s already underway. We’re establishing procurement certification programmes in partnership with the Federal University of Technology (FUTO), Owerri. Every year, we plan to send at least 45 civil servants for training. It’s not free — some will self-fund, while others will be sponsored. This capacity-building will address the talent gap in the public sector, and we will eventually seek the Governor’s support for expansion.
NUJ WatchDog Magazine: As the convener of Anambra Patriots for Soludo, how did it start, and why did you buy the re-election form for the Governor?
Okey Ezeobi: It might interest you to know how the Anambra Patriots began. During Governor Soludo’s second anniversary in office, we were having a discussion at the Executive Council (EXCO) meeting when a realization struck me. In my position at the Bureau of Public Procurement, I interact with every ministry. They all bring their projects to our office. This gives me a rare, panoramic view of the entire state’s developmental landscape. In fact, apart from the Governor, who sees the vision before it’s born, I’m probably the only one who sees the whole picture as it unfolds.
Each ministry often doesn’t know what the others are doing. So, I thought, “Why not document these incredible achievements in a single compendium to mark the Governor’s second year in office?” Fortunately, because of my office, we had access to hundreds of photos and records of every project across ministries. I compiled them into a brochure celebrating the administration’s accomplishments from day one.
When the brochure was complete, the printer asked whose name to put on it. I refused to use my name, and it wouldn’t have been appropriate to use the Bureau’s either. The printer insisted a name had to be included, so I said, “Just write Anambra Patriots, meaning patriotic sons of Anambra.” It wasn’t premeditated. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision to reflect the spirit behind the effort.
Once printed, the brochure was distributed across MDAs. One person who picked it up was deeply impressed and asked the Commissioner for Works who the Anambra Patriots were. The Commissioner said he didn’t know, but that I had delivered the brochures. The man, Ejiamatu, a friend of mine, was surprised and slightly upset. He came to my office and said, “Okey, I thought we were close. How could you create such a fantastic publication and not involve me? That brochure is exceptional — the world should see what the Governor is doing!”
He asked how many people were in Anambra Patriots, and jokingly, but truthfully, I told him, “Just me.” He replied, “Not anymore. I’m joining you.” That’s how we became two.
As we were still talking, Mr. Jude Akpua walked in. He had also been curious about who the Patriots were. When Ejiamatu told him it was me, he said, “Then count me in too.” That’s how we grew to three.
From there, the movement took off and started gathering momentum. Many people started joining organically. Today, Anambra Patriots has over 7,000 registered members with presence in every ward of Anambra State. As the convener, I meet many of our members for the first time at events — they join because they believe in the vision.
We have not paid a single person to join. People fund themselves because they see what Governor Soludo is doing, and they believe in the movement. Anambra Patriots has grown beyond me; it is now a powerful force working tirelessly to ensure the Governor is re-elected for a second term.
When APGA announced the sale of nomination forms, the Patriots resolved to purchase it for the Governor. They went to Abuja the same day and paid for it. When Governor Soludo visited the party office, the National Chairman told him, “Sir, your form has already been paid for by Anambra Patriots.”
We told the Governor, “Focus on governance. Let us handle the campaign.” The group called Anambra Patriots has become a self-sustaining movement. No one was paid to join; people bought into the vision on their own. We’re also working on branding the state and reconciling aggrieved APGA members. We are at the forefront of reconciliation efforts, working to bring aggrieved members back into the party. Many have shared how they laboured tirelessly for APGA, only to feel sidelined in recent times. I recall one elderly woman who told me, “We are not asking for money, just recognition for the sacrifices we made.”
Beyond reconciliation, Anambra Patriots is also preparing to embark on another major initiative: the strategic branding of Anambra State, aimed at reshaping its image and showcasing the transformative progress under Governor Soludo’s leadership.
President Tinubu recently said, “Governor Soludo knows the way.” And indeed, he does. At an EXCO meeting, Soludo declared he would eradicate poverty in Anambra. And from what I’ve seen, he truly means it, and he has the policies to back it up.
NUJ Anambra WatchDog Magazine: You have been honoured as the 2025 NUJ Anambra Man of the Year; how do you feel?
Okey’s appreciation message to Ndi Anambra after receiving the 2025 NUJ Anambra Man of the Year from the 2024 NUJ Anambra Man of the Year, Dr. Chinedu Umeadi, Agunechemba Abagana
Ezeobi, 2025 NUJ Man of the Year’s speech on the award day:
Today is very very symbolic. I hope Chief Zebrudaya is still around. You may not know it; sometimes little things we do encourage people to greatness. Today is symbolic because Chief Zebrudaya of New Masquerade TV drama is here. Many years ago, when I was still in primary school, something happened. Then I was stepping from Primary Five to Six. Usually those who performed academically well were appointed prefects in the next class. I was very intelligent and always took first position. I was a fatherless houseboy and never realised my school uniforms were rags, to say the least. My shorts, which I had worn for years, were torn, making my buttocks visible. The shirts I put on had only a couple of buttons. It was that bad. When the headmaster called out those who took first positions, I jumped out with excitement. The principal took a disdainful look at me and said, “You are so dirty and can’t be our senior prefect. Please go, go, go!” he shouted at me. That was the day it dawned on me I was wearing rags to school. But I remembered one thing and that’s why I said the presence of Chief Zebrudaya is symbolic. There was this song in his houseboys in New Masquerade drama; Gringory and Clarus sang in those days: “No condition is permanent in this world.” How many of you here remember that song? I went home that day in tears. I started singing that song. I said to myself, “That wearing rags today won’t deter me because tomorrow I will wear a crown.”
Today, I am here to say to everyone that if I can be honored by NUJ as the 2025 NUJ Anambra Man of the Year, your dreams can come true! Don’t give up on your dreams. The man you’re honoring today once ate from dustbins, literally. I was so hungry growing up that at times I would scavenge for food in dustbins. The man you are looking at today picked food from the dustbins, but that same man is who you’re honoring today. So your dreams can come true. Don’t give up on it. No matter the level you find yourself today, just look up to the Lord. I remember one of the days I was scavenging for food, like the regular scavengers do, and found none to eat. I started to cry and said to myself if my Dad were to be alive I wouldn’t be suffering like this. That day I clearly heard God’s voice. I was about nine years old. He said to me: “From today I will be your father.” That heavenly Father of mine has lived up to His promises. He has kept me, sustained me, moved me from one level to the other and I am here to give glory to Him.
I am happy seeing certain people here today. Mr Deputy Governor, thank you for coming. The other day I was telling some people that Mr Deputy Governor was an “Aje-butter” while we were in school way back in time. He was a mummy’s boy kind of child (laughs). I am surprised he is a strong man today (laughs). But you see, today all of us are here together. So Mr Deputy Governor, thank you for honouring this invitation. Members of the State Executive Council, thank you so much. My family members, ndi Igwe, and everyone, thank you. The patrons, I am so proud of you guys! Without you I won’t be who I am today. Finally, you see this my wife, Mrs. Ogochukwu Joy Ezeobi; she is my engine room. I really can’t do anything without her. She sees things I couldn’t see.
On a final note, I thank Mr Governor, a hardworking Governor, Oluatuegwu (one who isn’t scared of doing great jobs) who believes in me. You’re seeing me today because he placed me on this pedestal. He demonstrates great trust and confidence in me. I am grateful to you, Mr Governor. I do promise my Lord Jesus, my good people of Nanka, and Ndi Anambra, I will not fail you all. Thank you all for this honour. And to my predecessor, Dr. Chinedu Umeadi, Agunechemba, thanks for your encouragement, we will continue to be in touch. We will work together to help and build NUJ, Anambra State Council so they will continue the good work they are doing.
To my mothers: my own mother and my mother-in-law, thank you for giving birth to this wonderful woman here for me. Thank you everyone, and may God bless you all.
