Willie Obiano

Willie Obiano Biography Willie Maduaburochukwu Obiano (born August 8, 1957) is a Nigerian politician, banker, and administrator who served as the fourth Governor of Anambra State, Nigeria, from March 17, 2014, to March 17, 2022. Prior to his political career, he had a distinguished career in the banking sector. Early Life and Education Willie Obiano was born in Aguleri, a town in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State. He pursued his education in Nigeria, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy from the University of Lagos in 1979. He furthered his academic career by obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in the same discipline from the University of Lagos. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). Career Progression Obiano began his professional career in 1981 at the First Bank of Nigeria, where he worked briefly before joining Chevron Oil Nigeria PLC as an accountant. He transitioned into the banking industry in 1989 when he joined Fidelity Bank PLC. Over the next two decades, he rose through the ranks, demonstrating expertise in audit, treasury, and risk management. His notable roles at Fidelity Bank included serving as Executive Director in charge of the Business Banking, Operations, and IT divisions. He retired from the bank in 2012 as an Executive Director. Major Achievements and Notable Works as Governor Obiano was elected Governor of Anambra State in November 2013 on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). He was re-elected for a second term in November 2017. His administration focused on four key pillars: agriculture, industrialization, trade and commerce, and oil and gas. Security was a hallmark of his tenure; he is often credited with significantly improving the state's security architecture through substantial investments in technology and security agencies, which led to a notable decrease in crime rates. In infrastructure, his administration oversaw the construction of numerous roads and three signature flyovers in Awka, the state capital. Perhaps his most recognized achievement is the construction of the Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport in Umueri, which was completed during his second term. In agriculture, his government prioritized rice production, which led to Anambra State becoming a significant producer of the commodity. Current Status After completing his second term in office in March 2022, Obiano handed over power to his successor. He remains an influential figure in the political landscape of Anambra State and Nigerian politics.