Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu is a Nigerian politician who represented the Imo East constituency in Imo State in the 8th Assembly Senate of Nigeria. He is a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and a former gubernatorial aspirant in the 2019 elections. He is also a businessman, an academic, a philanthropist, and a peace advocate. He has received several awards and recognitions for his contributions to the development of his state and the nation.
Samuel Anyanwu Biography and Early Life
Born on June 18, 1965, into the family of Late Chief Sab Anyanwu of Umuduru Anyanwu, Obodo Amaimo, in Ikeduru, Imo State, Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu, widely known as Sam Daddy, has become a prominent figure in Nigerian politics. His educational journey commenced at School Road Primary School, Aba, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1977. Continuing to Amaimo High School, he secured his West Africa School Certificate in 1982.
Determined to expand his knowledge, Samuel pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science at the University of Port Harcourt, graduating in 2001. His pursuit of academic excellence took him to the University of Cambridge, Judge Business School, and Harvard University Kennedy School, where he earned a Master’s degree in Political Administration and a Doctorate degree in Business Administration.
Political Career
Samuel Anyanwu’s foray into politics began in 1983 when he assumed the role of Secretary of Imo State Youth Organization (IYO). He later became a political leader in the Democratic Party of Nigeria (DPN) and the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP). His political journey took a decisive turn in 2003 when he was appointed as the Transition Committee Chairman of Ikeduru Local Government Council, subsequently elected as the Executive Chairman in 2004.
His legislative service saw him elected to the State House of Assembly in 2007, where he became a key figure, serving as the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts and Due Process. He was re-elected in 2011 for a second term. In 2015, Samuel Anyanwu secured victory in the Senate elections, representing the Imo East Senatorial District. During his tenure, he played pivotal roles in various Senate committees, focusing on Ethics, Privileges and Public Positions, Customs, Exercise, and Tariff, as well as Petroleum Resources (Downstream).
In 2019, Samuel declared his intent to run for the governorship of Imo State but lost the PDP primary election. Undeterred, he gracefully accepted the outcome, pledging unwavering support to the party and its chosen candidate, Chukwuemeka Ihedioha.
Personal Life
Samuel Anyanwu is a devout Catholic, married to Florence Olachi Anyanwu (nee Madumere), and they are blessed with three children: Jennifer, Samuel, and Trust. Beyond politics, he is a sports enthusiast, music lover, and avid reader. Recognizing the importance of giving back, Samuel is actively involved in various humanitarian and charitable activities. He established the Samuel Anyanwu Foundation, a non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering the youth, women, and the less privileged in society.
Net Worth
While Samuel Anyanwu’s net worth is not publicly disclosed, he is widely regarded as a wealthy and successful businessman. As the Chairman of Newview Engineering Nig., Ltd; Chairman of Newseed Communications Ltd.; Managing Director of Sonada Oil Limited; and CEO of SamDaddy Investments Ltd. and SamDaddy Farms, Ltd, he has made significant contributions to the business landscape. His multifaceted ventures and commitment to community development underscore his influence and success.