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Tag: Peter Obi

  • Peter Obi Commemorates International Day of Education With Anambra School Children

    Peter Obi Commemorates International Day of Education With Anambra School Children

    By Ovat Abeng

    As the world celebrated the International Day of Education, Mr. Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State, marked the occasion by reaffirming his unwavering belief in the transformative power of education to drive development and innovation.

    The event coincided with the centenary anniversary of Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha, taking place today, Friday January 24th, 2025.

    To honour these intertwined milestones, Obi visited schools across Anambra State, from urban centres to rural communities, highlighting the critical role of education.

    At DMGS, he joined in the centenary celebration and reflected on the achievements of the school’s distinguished alumni, including Prof. Kenneth Dike, the first Black Vice-Chancellor in Africa; Emmanuel Ifeajuna, the first African to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games; Bishop Jonathan Onyemelukwe; Prof. James Ezeilo, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Prof. Ilochi Okafor, former Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; Dr. Tim Menakaya, former Nigerian Minister of Health; and Chief Simon Okeke, former Chairman of the Police Service Commission. Obi noted that these notable figures exemplify the power of education to transform lives and societies.

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    In his address to the students, Obi urged them to take their education seriously, emphasizing that with dedication and hard work, they too could achieve greatness like the school’s illustrious alumni.

    Obi also visited Nmiata-Anam community in Anambra West Local Government Area of the State, a place he described as being close to his heart. He recalled how, during his gubernatorial campaign, he had travelled to the town by boat due to a lack of accessible roads. He had promised the community a bridge and road network, and today, he proudly noted that this promise had been fulfilled, connecting the area to the rest of Anambra State.

    As part of the World Education Day celebrations, Obi visited Community Primary School and Our Lady of Lourdes Secondary School in Nmiata-Anam. During his visit, he interacted with students, emphasising the critical role of education in shaping their futures. He also pledged his continued support for the schools.

    He highlighted the transformative power of education in building a skilled workforce, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable development. He cited examples of countries like India, China, Morocco, and Egypt, which have significantly advanced their global standing through strategic investments in education.

    However, Obi also acknowledged the challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector, including inadequate funding, a shortage of qualified teachers, outdated curricula, and insecurity. He called on the government to prioritise education and ensure that every Nigerian child receives at least basic education, stating that doing so would create a more productive and progressive population.

    In conclusion, Obi urged Nigerians to commit to building a future where every child has access to quality education, reaffirming his vision of a New Nigeria driven by investment in education and the unlocking of the country’s full potential.

    While at DMGS, the Principal, Ven. Chigozie Anieto, commended Obi for his unwavering concern for humanity and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon him.

  • My Only Word For Peter Obi – Anambra Anglican Bishop, Ibezim

    My Only Word For Peter Obi – Anambra Anglican Bishop, Ibezim

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Anglican Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of the Awka Diocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Alexander Ibezim, has reminded Mr. Peter Obi that, given his position and his principles, he would continue to face opposition from various quarters. However, the Cleric assured him  in what he called his “only word for him”  of his unwavering support, stating that while he might not physically fight for him, he remains on his knees in prayer, asking God to protect Obi and accomplish His divine plans for him. He called on others to join in these prayers, noting that when God keeps Mr. Obi safe, both the common man and the institutions of the state are assured of safety.

    The Archbishop made the statement during the presentation of a cheque for ₦30 million to him at Paul University, Awka, on Saturday to support the continued improvement of the institution’s facilities.

    Describing Mr. Peter Obi as a lover of Nigeria and a champion of the masses, the Archbishop said that the history of the revival of education in Anambra State would be incomplete without recognising Obi’s contributions as Governor and his continued support thereafter.

    He further informed Obi that the Paul University had recently been granted a licence to offer Nursing programmes and expressed confidence that, given Obi’s passion for Nursing Education, he would extend his support to the new programme.

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    Earlier, during the presentation of the cheque, Obi expressed his satisfaction with the progress being made at the university and commended the Archbishop for his outstanding work in transforming the institution. He explained that the cheque brought his total contribution to the university for 2024 to ₦50 million, noting that he had been unable to complete the donation within that year due to the unfortunate kidnapping of Archbishop Godwin Okpala (Rtd). Obi further assured the institution of continued support in 2025.

    Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Paul University, expressed her delight at being part of the event, especially given her special relationship with the institution. Playfully addressing Obi, she said, “As an institution that trained some of your aides, including Valentine Obienyem, I think you should show a little bias for this university over others.” She emphasised the importance of Obi’s partnership, particularly with their new Nursing Programme.

    After the cheque presentation, Archbishop Ibezim took Obi on a tour of some of the ongoing projects at the university and appealed to him to encourage his friends to also support the institution. He called on both the federal and state governments to assist Missionary institutions, noting that the students they train are all Nigerians contributing to national development.

    The Vice-Chancellor of Paul University, Ven. Prof. Obiora Nwosu, expressed gratitude to Obi for his consistent support and encouraged him to feel at home whenever he visits the school. He assured him that the university would always welcome him warmly in the future.

  • Focus more on skills acquisition for future development – Peter Obi admonishes Anambra students

    Focus more on skills acquisition for future development – Peter Obi admonishes Anambra students

    By Ovat Abeng

    Former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, has encouraged students of St. John of God Secondary School Awka, Anambra State, to prioritize their education, particularly skills acquisition, as a pathway to future success.

    Obi stated this on Tuesday, during his visit to the school where he presented a cheque of 15 million Naira on behalf of Mrs. Bridget Egodi Egbujiobi (formerly Bridget Egodi Akaigwe, Class of 1979), who generously made this donation to support her alma mater.

    “Reflecting on the inspiration behind this gesture, Obi shared how, during a recent trip to the United States, he was warmly hosted by Dr. Leo and Mrs. Bridget Egbujiobi. During their discussions, Obi raised the importance of giving back to society, particularly through supporting one’s alma mater. He congratulated the school on her 60th anniversary.

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    During the visit, the Manager of St. John of God Secondary School Awka, Rev. Fr. Malachy Maduewesi thanked Obi, attributing the remarkable advancement of the institution, in both infrastructure and learning, to his ongoing support.

    The Senior Prefect of the school, Miss Chioma Rita Ezechi presented a pair of sandals to Obi on behalf of the school for his wife, noting that Obi’s own pair would be ready during his next visit. She expressed the gratitude of the entire school for Obi’s previous contributions, which include buses, computers, internet connectivity, generators, a library, and funding for the construction and renovation of school buildings. She prayed for continued blessings on Obi as he supports their institution.

    Following his visit to the school, Obi also made a stop at Regina Caeli School of Nursing Awka, where he contributed 10 million Naira to support its mission of advancing healthcare education.

    The Manager of Regina Caeli Hospital thanked Obi for his sustained support and praised his generosity, noting that Obi’s inclusive giving, without regard to tribe or religion, is a lesson in our common humanity – a valuable principle for all Nigerians to learn.

    The Bishop of Awka, Most Rev. Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor, received the donations on behalf of both institutions. He highlighted the significance of these contributions in supporting facility improvements, enhancing student resources, and maintaining high standards in education and healthcare services. He remarked on Obi’s tireless generosity, observing that if Obi could share his private resources so abundantly, he would undoubtedly extend even greater benefits to the nation if given the opportunity to lead.

  • Peter Obi donates N60million to University on the Niger, Teaching Hospital in Anambra

    Peter Obi donates N60million to University on the Niger, Teaching Hospital in Anambra

    By Ovat Abeng

    In his ongoing commitment to investing in critical areas that drive development, health education, and poverty reduction, Mr. Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has donated 50 million naira to the University on the Niger (UNINIGER), Umunya, at their take-off campus in Iyi-Enu, in Idemili North Local Government Area of the State, to support infrastructure development.

    He also provided an additional 10 million Naira to the School of Nursing at Iyienu Mission Hospital, Ogidi.

    During his visit to the Institution, on Thursday, Mr. Obi shared his view that financial support for health, education, and poverty reduction efforts is not merely expenditure, but rather an investment in crucial areas that drive sustainable development. “Our health and education sectors have continued to suffer from severe neglect and lack of government attention, leading to many dire consequences,” he explained.

    Highlighting the specific challenges facing the health sector, Mr. Obi noted that it is burdened not only by funding gaps and infrastructure deficits but also by a significant shortage of healthcare professionals across the country. “We are currently facing a shortage of doctors and nurses, far below WHO’s recommendations,” he said. “The solution to this critical shortage lies in investing more aggressively in the training of healthcare professionals nationwide.”

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    He expressed his belief that investments like these form the foundation of future developmental strides. Addressing the students, he encouraged them to remain committed to their studies and moral development, reminding them that the value of their qualifications lies in both academic and character excellence.

    In his remarks, the Anglican Bishop on the Niger, Bishop Owen Nwokolo, who oversees the schools, recalled how Obi revitalised education in the state by returning schools to the Church and supporting them thereafter. He expressed deep gratitude to Mr. Obi and commended his dedication to uplifting crucial areas such as education, healthcare, and empowerment. Bishop Nwokolo noted that Iyienu School of Nursing was one of the first institutions to benefit from Obi’s interventions when he was Governor, which enabled them to gain accreditation, and it has continued to receive his support long after his tenure.

    In his own remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Chinedu Osita Nebo, said that Obi is one man who understands the importance of education and has continued to apply himself commendably to that cause. He remarked that Obi’s devotion to education during his tenure as governor awakened the entire South East to pay attention to education, which has led the Eastern states to rank among the best in the nation.

    Speaking at the event, a medical student of the institution, Mr. Ikenna Offor, shared his joy at being part of it, saying, “I’ve heard so much about Mr. Obi, but this was my first time seeing him. It’s amazing to witness the generosity of this great man. Since joining this school, I’ve learned that it was his intervention that made possible two student hostels, House Officers’ quarters, the theatre complex, offices, classrooms, the accident and emergency building, the amenity ward, staff quarters, and the live ambulances. We thank him deeply for his support and hope he continues visiting us.”

    It was gathered that Mr. Obi was accompanied by his fans including Professor Stella Okunna, among other personalities.

  • Peter Obi Donates Bus, N5 Million to Kogi Grimard School of Nursing

    Peter Obi Donates Bus, N5 Million to Kogi Grimard School of Nursing

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on students of Grimard School of Nursing Science, Anyigba, Kogi State, to take their studies seriously and prepare for future leadership roles in Nigeria. He made this appeal during a visit to the institution, where he fulfilled a promise made three months ago.

    On his previous visit to the school in July, 2024, Obi donated ₦10 million to support the school’s accreditation efforts and infrastructure development. During that visit, the Catholic Bishop of Idah, Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Adaji, mentioned the need for a coaster bus for accreditation purposes, suggesting that a used bus might suffice.

    “Today, 15th October, 2024, Obi fulfilled his promise by presenting the school with a coaster bus and an additional ₦5 million to cover fuel and other logistical needs. Addressing the students, he urged them to remain focused on their training, emphasising that nursing and allied sciences are in high demand globally.

    He further assured the school of his continued support, noting that Grimard is one of over 22 nursing and midwifery schools that benefit from his annual educational assistance.

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    Speaking at the event, Bishop Adaji expressed profound gratitude, praising Obi for his steadfast commitment to education and healthcare. “Obi is not here for political reasons,” the bishop remarked. “He is here to ensure that education thrives in Nigeria. He wants to see you succeed and lead in the future. Look up to him as a model of integrity in politics.”

    The Provost of the school, Mrs. Usman Obonugwa, also expressed heartfelt appreciation, thanking Obi for his generosity and his ongoing contributions to the development of the institution.

    It was gathered Obi’s donations and visit are further testament to his dedication to improving the educational and healthcare sectors across Nigeria.

  • Nigeria Nurses Should Be Allow To ‘Japa’ For Greener Pastures, Obi Advocate

    Nigeria Nurses Should Be Allow To ‘Japa’ For Greener Pastures, Obi Advocate

    By Ovat Abeng

    Former governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi has said nurses and other professionals travelling overseas for greener pastures should not be allowed.

    Obi stated this while making a donation of N20million to St Charles Borromeo College of Nursing and midwifery in Onitsha on Monday.

    Obi donated N10million each to both the midwifery and nursing departments, saying that education and health are the currencies with which people will transact in the future.

    Obi said Nigeria has over 200million people, and that there is no need to restrict people from travelling out of the country for greener pastures, rather Nigeria should concentrate on training more people, saying that foreign remittances can be a form of revenue for the country.

    Read Also: Peter Obi donates N70 million to schools in Onitsha

    “What we are doing is not charity, we are rather investing in you. We need to invest in knowledge and health because it is the future.

    “Investing in you will ensure your greatness. Your profession is lucrative, you’re being looked for all over the world.

    “I told Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria that they should stop denying anybody from leaving Nigeria for greener pastures.

    “We have 200 million people, let us educate them. Let those who want go out to go and let those who want to stay should stay. Diaspora remittance is also a form of revenue generation.

    “If you see me going round trying to donate, it is not anything but because we want to make life better for you all. I came here so I can donate to you. My children will not attend that university, and I can sit down and use the money to add more chieftaincy to my name, but that is not be how to develop the future.

    “I will be in college of Nursing Anyingba, Kogi State on Tuesday, they need my assistance to get accreditation and I will be there to support them, so that they can get it.”

  • Peter Obi donates N70 million to schools in Onitsha

    Peter Obi donates N70 million to schools in Onitsha

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has donated seventy million naira to three higher Institutions in Anambra State.

    It was gathered that the former governor of the state, donated N50 million to Shanahan University Onitsha during its official opening ceremony, N10 million to Holy Rosary Specialist Hospital/Maternity Onitsha and also N10 million to the College of Nursing, Saint Charles Borromeo Specialist Hospital Onitsha respectively.

    Speaking at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity Onitsha, on Monday, shortly after the donations, Obi emphasized the importance of knowledge over oil, stating that “the currency for the future is knowledge, not oil”.

    He highlighted that both the Catholic and Anglican Churches have established some of the best educational institutions in the world. He explained his decision to support humanity through the Church, confident that they make judicious use of resources.

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    He also called on the institutions to continue admitting students without regard to denomination, tribe, or nationality. “Like Gandhi, I encourage the brotherhood of all men,” Obi said while revealing that the next port of call will be the University on the Niger and  the School of Midwifery at Iyienu.

    According to him, “This is the future. What is great is those who think about tomorrow.”

    “I am not doing the donations to canvass for vote. I am not desperate to be the President of Nigeria. This is my little effort to contribute for a better Nigeria.

    This donation reflects my commitment to education and development of Nigeria.

    Obi, acknowledged the significant role of the church in establishing top-notch educational institutions worldwide.

    The Archbishop of Onitsha, Valerian Okeke, expressed gratitude to Obi, while Vice Chancellor Obi Oguejiofor announced free internet facilities from now until January and free lunch for students on the occasion.

    Oguejiofor noted that every Nigerian university is great, but Shanahan University aims to be even greater.

    He thanked the Archbishop for his vision and divine inspiration in establishing the university.

    Currently, the university has around 200 students and plans to build a 1,500-capacity auditorium.

    Oguejiofor urged Reverend Fathers to sponsor at least one student’s scholarship in the university.

  • Cholera Outbreak: Invest more in health sector – Obi tells Tinubu

    Cholera Outbreak: Invest more in health sector – Obi tells Tinubu

    By Ovat Abeng

    Following the recent cholera outbreak that have claimed many lives in Lagos and other part of the Nigeria, the former Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general elections  Mr. Peter Obi has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deployed more financial resources to health sector to curb further disease outbreaks in the country.

    He alleged that the cause of the outbreak was as a result of lack of investment in the health sector by the present administration.

    Obi made the called at the 6th Public Lecture of the Board of Fellows, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (BOF-PSN) held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka on Wednesday.

    According to him, Nigeria should not be talking about outbreaks now, we have build vaccination facility in this country in 1948, almost 20-years before Cyrus that is now the biggest vaccines producer in the World, yet because of the bad leadership, corruption and people not be committed to good leadership are busy frustrating the facility not to function.

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    “Nigerians today, rather resort to prayers whenever they fall sick to secure spiritual cure than going to a hospital.

    He stated that the government rather than partner local pharmaceutical industries for manufacturing of high quality of drugs, and,  medicines, what the government has been doing is issuing licences for importation drugs and collection of revenues from the importers.

    Obi who was the keynote speaker on the lecture topic: “Access to Quality Medicine in An Unstable Environment”, stressed that catering for the health of the citizens is one major priority of any government, but, lamented that do to leadership incompetence in the country the issue of health in the country has not being given attention it deserved.

    He noted that he visited a primary health centre in  an outskirt of Abuja in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and, discovered that there were 50 pregnant women in the hospital, and, there one just one medical staff attending to them.

    He stated that there were about 24,000 primary health centres in the country, but, lamented that none of them is functional.

    He also lamented the allocation to health as contained in the current national budget saying that there was need to prioritise issues concerning health such that in addition to providing health insurance to all the citizens, there should be a deliberate policy by government to ensure local manufacture of drugs and medicines.

    He cited that augmentin drug which used to sell for the sum of N5,000 now sells for N18,000.

    He also took a swipe at the governments at state and federal who give priority to equipping health clinic at Governors’ clinics, Presidency and National Assembly who those they are meant to take care yet abandon for Overseas hospitals while those for the citizens are neglected.

    “We need to dismantle the type of leadership we have in the country, and, everyone show commitment to install a government that will provide good governance, otherwise, we can’t move forward.

    He also lamented that Nigeria is a signatory to SDG, but since after COVID pandemic, the country has not been able to establish any laboratory to conduct tests for diseases.

    Also speaking, Dr Afam Obidike, Anambra state Commissioner for Health said Gov. Chukwuma Soludo’s administration acquired 5000 hectres of land at Ogboji in Orumba South to build Pharmaceutical Industrial City.

    According to Obidike, the idea of the pharmaceutical industrial city is to change the known concept of importation and selling to manufacturing and exportation of drugs.

    “It will be the biggest pharmaceutical distributors’ hub in West Africa,” he said.

    Earlier in his address, Dr Joel Adagadzu, Chairman, Board of Fellows, PSN, said the recommendations from the lecture would help the leadership of PSN to continue the dialogue with government on finding equitable solutions to access to quality medicines for the teeming population.

    The event was also grace by the Unizik Vice Chancellor, Prof Joseph Ikechebelu, Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, CEO of PAXS Pharmaceuticals Limited, Uche Akpakama, Unizik Pharmaceutical Students, among others.

  • Peter Obi visits family of kidnapped Anambra Labour Party 2021 governorship candidate

    Peter Obi visits family of kidnapped Anambra Labour Party 2021 governorship candidate

    By Ovat Abeng

    A former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has visited the family of the kidnapped Labour Party’s governorship candidate during the 2021 Anambra governorship election, Obiora Agbasimalo.

    During the visit at their home in Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday, Obi also commiserated with the family over the death of Pa Emmanuel Agbasimalo, the father of the kidnapped victim. Pa Emmanuel died on May 20, 2024.

    The Nigerian Tribune gathered that the photos of his visit were shared by the wife of the kidnapped victim, Eucharia Agbasimalo, on her social media handle.

    The Labour Party governorship candidate was kidnapped at Azia community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, on his way to attending a political function in September 2021 and his whereabouts have remained unknown till date.

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    The family said Obi visited them to commiserate with them over their missing son and during the visit, the former Anambra governor learnt that they were also grieving over the death of the father of the missing LP candidate.

    They added that Obi commiserated with the family over the death and also showed empathy that their son, who was kidnapped in Anambra since 2021, has not been found.

    They described Obi’s visit to the family as a mark of love, noting that his visit to condole and sympathise with the family at a time they are still looking for their missing son and also mourning the death of their patriarch, was largely appreciated by the family.

    The caption read, “The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate paid a visit to the family of Obiora Agbasimalo, the kidnapped 2021 Anambra LP governorship candidate. During the visit, Mr Obi also learnt of the recent demise of the victim’s father, Engr. Emmanuel Agbasimalo and thereafter commiserated with the family.

    “The visit, which is coming at a time when the leadership of the Labour Party at the national and state levels have abandoned their governorship candidate, who is still in the captivity of kidnappers, was largely appreciated by the family in particular.

    “Engr. Emmanuel Agbasimalo died while thinking and waiting for the return of his son, who has been kidnapped since September 2021 and his whereabouts still unknown. Obi assured the family that he would use his good offices to get to the root of the matter and ensure that justice is served.”

    The family also called on Labour Party at both national and state levels to show seriousness and responsibility in looking for their missing candidate.

    They also called on all well-meaning Nigerians and Ndi Anambra to lend their voices and join them in seeking justice for their missing son. While also calling on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and security operatives to make public their findings in the investigations as they continue to ask “#whereisObioraAgbasimalo”.

    They also carpeted the national Chairman of the Labour Party, Chief Julius Abure along with Clement Ojukwu and all members of the national executive of the party for abandoning their governorship candidate who was kidnapped at the peak of election campaign during the last governorship election in Anambra State in 2021.

    Recall that two persons are currently standing trial at the Nnewi High Court over the matter.

  • Achebe’s Memorial Lecture: Obi lauds Anambra Young Writers for Celebrating Legendary Achebe Annually

    Achebe’s Memorial Lecture: Obi lauds Anambra Young Writers for Celebrating Legendary Achebe Annually

    By Ovat Abeng

    Former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Presidential Candidate of Labour Party in Nigeria, Mr. Peter Obi, has commended young writers in Anambra State for annually celebrating legendary Nigerian writer, Late Prof. Chinua Achebe.

    Obi gave the commendation while speaking at the 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival and Memorial Lecture, organized by the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter), which was held at the Prof. Kenneth Dike State Central E-Library Library, Awka, Anambra State capital on Thursday.

    Obi, the Keynote Speaker at the event, described Achebe as a revered writer whose literary contributions have left an indelible mark on the global literary landscape. He emphasized the importance of preserving Achebe’s legacy, stating that events like the literary festival play a crucial role in keeping the flame of Achebe’s influence and legacies alive.

    Obi who rated the annual event high, commended the Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter) for sustaining the literary initiative, and for their commitment to nurturing and promoting literary talents in Anambra State. He further urged young writers to draw inspiration from Achebe’s works and use their creativity to address contemporary societal issues.

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    Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Occasion and Traditional Ruler of Obosi, Igwe Chidubem Iweka emphasized that late Chinua Achebe was a great literary icon, whose books were translated in many languages, and encouraged students to always focus on their studies and not be deterred by the challenges of the time.

    The monarch also urged the students to constantly seek knowledge through books and to  be proud ambassadors of Igbo language and culture anywhere, anytime.

    Contributing, former Secretary to the State Government and former Nigerian Diplomat, Mr. Oseloka Obaze, commended the organizers of the event for their dedication to promoting literary arts and preserving the legacy of Chinua Achebe; even as he highlighted the significance of such events in fostering intellectual growth and cultural awareness among the youth.

    While reiterating the importance of reading as a cornerstone for personal and intellectual development, Obaze, who is also the MD/CEO of Selonnes Consult, also urged the youth to embrace Achebe’s legacy not only through celebrations but by actively participating in the literary world, ensuring that the flame of enlightenment continues to burn brightly in Anambra State and beyond.

    Earlier in his Address of welcome, the Convener of the event and Coordinator, Society of Young Nigerian Writers (Anambra State Chapter), Mr. Izunna Okafor, said primary aim of the event was to celebrate Achebe as a hero and eagle on the Iroko of African Literature, immortalize him in their own way as young writers, as well as keep his memory alive.

    He commended the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo for recently immortalizing Achebe, which he said, had been one of the Association’s major calls and appeals to government since the last eight years the event was initiated.

    “Aside these, we also, through this event, promote, encourage and reward creative writing and reading culture among our youths and students; discover and harness amazing talents among our young ones, while also presenting writers and readers (intellectuals) as the elixirs to the country’s ailments, among other objectives we pursue through it,” he said.

    Speaking, former MD/CEO, Anambra Broadcasting Service, Chief Uche Nworah, echoed the sentiments of preserving cultural heritage as a key aspect of Achebe’s literary legacy. He emphasized that Achebe’s works served as a bridge connecting the past, present, and future of the Igbo people, fostering a sense of identity and pride. He further encouraged the youth to delve into Achebe’s novels and essays, viewing them not only as literary masterpieces but also as valuable repositories of Igbo traditions

    On his part, the MD/CEO Anambra State Signage and Advertising Agency (ANSAA) and Co-founder of Awka Literary Society, Mr. Odili Tony Ujubuoṅu, passionately urged the youth and emerging writers to cultivate imaginative thinking and writing skills, emphasizing their pivotal role in fostering innovation. Ujubuoṅu underscored the symbiotic relationship between writers and innovators, asserting that groundbreaking ideas often originate from the creative minds of writers, while challenging participants to embrace avid reading.

    Other personalities who graced the occasion include the first female Professor of Mass Communication in Sub-saharan Africa, Prof. Stella Okunna; the state’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, represented by Mrs. Chioma Ifediorah, the Ministry’s Director of Arts and Culture; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power and Water Resources, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Uzoka; award-winning writer and journalist, Uzor Maxim Uzoatu; widely-published author and former governorship candidate in Anambra, Okeke Chika Jerry; the MD/CEO, Naira Rice Mill, Mr. Arinze Omenwa; former Director, Anambra State Library Board, Dr. Nkechi Udeze; award-winning author, Reginald Chinedu Ofordile; among others.

    Themed “Ten Years After: Remembering Achebe’s Legacies in Today’s Nigeria”, the 2023 Chinua Achebe Literary Festival featured unveiling of the 8th Chinua Achebe Poetry/Essay Anthology — “Anthills of Words (In Memory of Achebe)”; cutting Achebe’s 93rd posthumous birthday cake, poetry renditions and dramatizing of Achebe’s books, Chinua Achebe Essay Writing Competition, and the presentation of certificates/awards to deserving participants and guests, along with other literary activities made the event memorable.

    Mr. Peter Obi, and the Chairman of the Occasion, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, were also honoured with the Chinua Achebe Excellence Award at the event.