CHIJIOKE NWANKWOEZE DEFINING LEADERSHIP BY ALTRUISTIC SERVICE

By Comrade Amb victor M Olajide JP, Abuja 

NEWS.SPORTS.ENTERTAINMENTS

The Director of Land Administration. In the dynamic and often contentious arena of land management in Nigeria's bustling capital, Abuja, Nwankwoeze has distinguished himself not through overt assertions of power, but via a rare blend of unyielding competence, meticulous diligence, and an exceptional capacity for empathetic engagement. Those who have collaborated with him portray a leader whose command stems from humility, whose judgments are rooted in deep expertise, and whose demeanor inspires confidence and direction in equal measure. His appointment marks a historic milestone: as the first Estate Surveyor and Valuer (ESV) to helm this pivotal role, and notably, the first Igbo individual to do so, bringing a sense of equity and justice to the Igbo community, particularly in Orumba, Anambra State, where his roots lie.

From his formative years, Nwankwoeze exhibited an innate fascination with the intricacies of the built environment—a passion that propelled him toward a career in architecture, urban planning, and environmental stewardship. His educational foundation was laid at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, where he pursued Architectural Technology and attained a Higher National Diploma (HND), gaining invaluable hands-on and theoretical knowledge in land utilization, spatial design, and urban infrastructure. Building on this, he advanced to the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC), securing a bachelor's degree that honed his skills for high-level public administration. Further postgraduate pursuits refined his strategic acumen and policy expertise, arming him to tackle the multifaceted demands of overseeing land affairs in one of Africa's most rapidly expanding metropolises. While his academic journey has faced scrutiny in recent years, with allegations of certificate irregularities surfacing in 2025—stemming from claims of a forged Ordinary National Diploma (OND) from Kwara State Polytechnic used as an entry qualification—the matter remains under judicial review, with a Federal High Court hearing scheduled for late 2025 and no conclusive outcome reported as of early 2026. Nwankwoeze's steadfast commitment to professional integrity underscores his resilience amid such challenges, as he continues to serve with distinction.

Nwankwoeze's ascent in the professional realm exemplifies perseverance, expertise, and an unwavering ethical compass. Joining the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) early in his career, he methodically progressed through increasingly demanding positions, immersing himself in urban planning, land allocation, regulatory oversight, and public service optimization. These roles not only broadened his understanding of Abuja's escalating urban pressures but also solidified his standing as a principled administrator who harmonizes technical rigor with a profound sense of civic obligation. His elevation to Director of Land Administration in the FCTA was a testament to his proven track record, earning him the institution's unequivocal trust and positioning him at the forefront of transformative initiatives.

In his daily operations, Nwankwoeze's composed presence and systematic methodology set a benchmark for leadership. He prioritizes active listening over authoritative decree, creating an environment where concerns are met with genuine consideration. Visitors and stakeholders frequently commend his focused attentiveness, his ability to dissect intricate issues, devise pragmatic resolutions, and deliver them with transparency and equity. Within the department, he cultivates an inclusive culture through an open-door policy that encourages unrestricted idea exchange, transcending hierarchical barriers. This authentic humility reflects his conviction that public service is a solemn duty, not an entitlement, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that enhances productivity and morale.

Anecdotes of his extraordinary patience abound, illustrating his human-centered approach. A junior staffer once recounted navigating a convoluted land allocation dilemma, only to be guided by Nwankwoeze's serene, insightful inquiries that illuminated a clear path forward. Similarly, a member of the public grappling with documentation hurdles described an extended consultation where his thorough explanations and pledged follow-up instilled lasting reassurance. These narratives highlight a consistent ethos: full engagement, deliberate action, and profound respect for every individual's perspective.

Under Nwankwoeze's stewardship, the Department of Land Administration has achieved notable strides in operational efficiency, transparency, and accountability. Processes for land documentation have been streamlined, response times to inquiries expedited, and stakeholder interactions fortified. His proactive enforcement of ground rent policies has led to the revocation of thousands of undeveloped titles—4,794 in one major action in 2025—aimed at curbing speculation and ensuring productive land use. Developers are now mandated to commence construction within two years of allocation or risk forfeiture, a reform designed to combat racketeering and promote sustainable urban growth. Furthermore, his collaboration with anti-corruption bodies, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has been instrumental in dismantling land fraud syndicates. In a landmark event in January 2025, Nwankwoeze publicly lauded the EFCC for recovering forged title documents worth hundreds of millions of naira and restoring them to rightful owners, pledging ongoing FCTA support to eradicate such crimes and rebuild public trust in the system

Yet, his tenure has not been without hurdles. In early 2025, he was summoned by the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions amid allegations of involvement in land racketeering, money laundering, and asset declaration discrepancies—claims he did not initially appear for, prompting further scrutiny. These investigations, while unresolved in available updates, reflect the high-stakes nature of land administration in Abuja, where vested interests often clash with reform efforts. Nwankwoeze's advocates argue that such challenges underscore the disruptive impact of his anti-corruption stance, as he navigates a bureaucracy historically plagued by opacity.

Colleagues and observers alike highlight instances where he personally engaged with petitioners, demystified regulatory frameworks, and mentored staff on intricate cases. In a field frequently characterized by bureaucratic detachment, his fusion of authoritative expertise with authentic interpersonal connection has garnered unwavering loyalty and widespread respect. His unpretentious accessibility—evident in routine office walkthroughs, probing yet supportive inquiries, and emphasis on collective achievements—bolsters a departmental ethos of integrity and excellence.

Despite occupying one of Abuja's most sensitive positions, Nwankwoeze remains remarkably approachable, interfacing with staff, stakeholders, and the public sans affectation. His humility manifests in subtle yet impactful gestures: a readiness to heed advice, seek counsel when warranted, and attribute successes to team endeavors. This leadership style not only fortifies institutional trust but also exemplifies how effective governance can thrive amid complexity.

Chijioke Nwankwoeze's illustrious career is a testament to the power of knowledge, discipline, and experiential wisdom. His trajectory affirms that authentic leadership transcends titles and hierarchies—it is forged through the capacity to listen profoundly, comprehend empathetically, and cultivate enduring trust. In the labyrinthine domain of Abuja's land administration, fraught with rapid urbanization and competing demands, he stands as a beacon of principled service, demonstrating that a public servant's legacy is etched in enhanced lives, nurtured confidence, and enduring professionalism. Through his visionary reforms and collaborative spirit, Nwankwoeze continues to shape a more equitable, transparent, and vibrant capital for all Nigerians.