1) On August 18, 2006, Gov. Sonny Perdue sent a letter informing us that the City of Hahira had been selected to receive $300,000 grant from the Community Block Grant Program. The money was for sewer improvements which had been proposed by the community.
2) City of Ethics Designations 2006
3) I provided a good five years strategic plan for the city.
4) Reinstated "Citizens To Be Heard" in the monthly Council Meetings.
5) I received Recognition at the Georgia Municipal Association, Mayor's Day Conference, Jan 2006
6) I am the Recipient of a Certificate of Achievement form the Georgia Municipal Association, June 2007
7) New Fire Station completed in 2004
8) Attended a meeting with the Department of Transportation Commissioner in Atlanta which resulted in the Department of Transportation changing its initial plan for Exit 29. This change of plans saved ten homes, Motel 8, and the Liquor Store, which would have resulted in a significant loss of revenue for the City of Hahira.
9) Instrumental in the City being refunded an 8,000.00 fine paid to the EPD. The City was refunded by the engineer who was late submitting the City's report to the EPD.
10) Installed street lights named streets which had dark areas.
11) Health Insurance for City's employees
12) Increase the City's economic base, and enhance revenue construction of new developments
Chief Ogundu Oyo: A Legacy of Leadership and Enterprise
Chief Ogundu Oyo, a distinguished figure of Ikwerre heritage, was a paramount chief and influential businessman originally from Arochukwu, in present-day Abia State, Nigeria. Over 200 years ago, he migrated to Isiokpo in Rivers State, where he established a lasting legacy, both economically and culturally.
Upon settling in Isiokpo, Chief Oyo founded Ngbu-Oyo Village (also known as Azumini Village) after initially residing in Nkarahia Village. His entrepreneurial acumen helped establish vibrant trade networks, significantly contributing to the region's prosperity. His leadership fostered substantial cultural integration, blending Aro and Ikwerre customs—a legacy that continues to define Isiokpo's identity today.
Chief Oyo's enduring legacy of leadership, commerce, and cultural stewardship continues through his descendants. His direct son, Chief Hon. Dr. Temple Nnanta Ogundu, has proudly carried forward his father's name and influence. Chief Dr. Ogundu is the Eze Wene Zi-Nu Mba I of Rumuogba Kingdom, a title reflecting his dedication to community, heritage, and service.
In addition to his traditional leadership, Chief Hon. Dr. Temple Nnanta Ogundu has made significant contributions in academia, public service, and community development:
• Academic Leadership: With over 30 years of experience in teaching and administration, Dr. Ogundu has held pivotal roles in various educational institutions. As the Dean of Academic Affairs at Okefenokee Technical College, he recruited and supervised faculty, enhancing academic programs. At Park University's School for Extended Learning, he developed and implemented academic and training programs, receiving the Sustained Growth Award for three consecutive years.
• Public Service: Dr. Ogundu's commitment to public service is exemplified by his historic election as the first Black Mayor of Hahira, Georgia, USA. He also served as City Councilman and Mayor Pro-Tempore, where he negotiated intergovernmental agreements and implemented strategic city initiatives. His tenure as mayor was marked by the development of a five-year strategic plan, securing substantial grants, and improving city infrastructure and employee benefits.
• Educational Qualifications: Dr. Ogundu holds a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership with a focus on Higher Education from Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ. His dissertation explored the correlations between faculty and student diversity and student retention rates in two-year public colleges. He also earned a Master of Business Administration in Finance and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Alabama A&M University, Normal, AL.
• Community Engagement: Beyond his professional roles, Dr. Ogundu has been actively involved in community service. He has served as Vice-Chairman of the Valdosta Chapter of the American Red Cross Board of Directors, a member of the Board of Directors for Lowndes Associated Ministries to People, and an advisory committee member for Moody Air Force Base Education and Planning.
Chief Dr. Ogundu's multifaceted career and unwavering dedication to leadership, education, and community service exemplify the enduring legacy of Chief Oyo—a legacy characterized by trailblazing leadership, cultural pride, and public service across continents.