TIMOTHY Nwachi, Chairman of Afikpo Local Government in Ebonyi State, has sealed a partnership with Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) to establish a modern automobile diagnostic centre in the town.
The initiative, which is the first of its kind at the Local Government level in Ebonyi, is part of broader efforts by the Council to drive innovation, technology adoption, and local economic development.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Nwachi said the project was borne out of consultations with local automobile technicians who requested a dedicated mechanical village to meet growing demands in vehicle servicing and repairs.
“Technology is the backbone of modern society. Afikpo receives a high volume of modern vehicles, being the second-largest city in Ebonyi State. Our technicians needed support, and we saw an opportunity to act”, he said.
According to the Council boss, the collaboration with Innoson Nigeria the premier indigenous automobile manufacturer, will see the deployment of an electronic diagnostic machine capable of detecting faults in modern vehicles with precision. Construction of the centre is already at an advanced stage.
“We provided the land and started the structure. Innoson has committed to supplying the diagnostic equipment. We are also putting in place accompanying facilities to ensure the centre operates efficiently,” he explained.
The facility, when completed, is expected to not only enhance service delivery for Afikpo residents but also serve surrounding Local Governments and travellers, positioning the area as a regional service point for modern automotive diagnostics and repairs.
Beyond technology, Nwachi also highlighted healthcare development as a core pillar of his Administration. He commended Governor Francis Nwifuru for strengthening staffing at general and primary health centres across the State, noting that his Council is complementing that by improving infrastructure around health facilities in Afikpo.
“We recently constructed a bridge to improve access to the Ugwegu health centre and renovated another previously dilapidated facility to improve service delivery,” he said.
Nwachi emphasised that his administration is anchored on heritage, innovation, and practical solutions to the people’s challenges.
“We are guided by our legacy and focused on the future. Afikpo must remain historically proud but functionally ready for modern demands,” he added.
