Nwifuru Emerges Chairman, Board of Trustees of Former State Assembly Presiding Officers’ Forum

Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has been named the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of State Houses of Assembly. His emergence was officially announced after a meeting of the Forum, which brought together former legislative leaders from across the federation.

The Forum is a national body comprising former Speakers and Deputy Speakers of the 36 State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria. Over the years, it has served as a platform for promoting legislative excellence, strengthening democratic institutions, and enhancing cooperation among past presiding officers. According to the Forum, Governor Nwifuru’s selection was based on his proven leadership capacity, rich legislative experience, and unwavering commitment to advancing Nigeria’s democratic process. Members expressed confidence that he would inject renewed vigour and purposeful direction into the organization. The Forum reaffirmed its core mission of strengthening democratic governance nationwide. It stressed the importance of collaboration among former lawmakers as a means of contributing to national development and supporting ongoing efforts to deepen Nigeria’s democratic culture. Rt. Hon. Nwifuru’s political career began in 2011 when he was first elected into the Ebonyi State House of Assembly. His legislative rise peaked in 2015 when he was elected Speaker, a position he held until 2023. During his eight years as Speaker, Nwifuru played a significant role in shaping governance in Ebonyi State. He worked closely with the Executive arm to ensure that legislative interventions met the needs and aspirations of the people. His cooperative leadership style, reform-oriented approach, and development-driven focus earned him recognition within and beyond the state, further enhancing his credibility and contributing to his emergence as BoT Chairman. Commenting on the development, Dr. Monday Uzor, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, described Nwifuru’s appointment as a testament to his enduring influence in Nigeria’s legislative and political landscape. He expressed optimism that the Forum would experience greater stability, cohesion, and impact under the Governor’s stewardship.