By Uchenna Ezeadigwe
Awka
Eleven distinguished personalities from communities in Anambra East Local Government Area have been honoured with the Anambra State Town Union Council (ASTUC) Youth Wing Role Model Awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions to community development, youth empowerment, and exemplary leadership.
The award ceremony, held in Anambra East on Friday, also served as a platform to promote the core values championed by the Anambra State Government, including the fear of God, patriotism, discipline, hard work, and integrity.
The awardees represented various communities across the local government area. They include High Chief Alexander Udealor (Ozuome I & II) of Eziagulu Otu; Chief Nnasom John Orji (Okeosisi Mkpunando Aguleri) of Mkpunando; High Chief Kenneth Ankwe Ogugua (Onye Amuma Do Ili) of Umuoba Anam; High Chief Emeka Nwakalor (Mmili Enweilo Igbariam, Okalakwu) of Igbariam; High Chief Barr. Peter Madubuko of Ajilija Aguleri; High Chief Peter Osita Odieli (Akunne, Otu I of Otuocha) of Otu Aguleri; High Chief Akwuobi Ejimofor (Ichie Ofiadi Ulu) of Ikem Ivite; High Chief Nnazor Chikelue (Akuoma Ji Aku) of Enugwu Otu; and High Chief Ikechukwu Motigwe (Kwuome I of Aguleri) of Enugu Aguleri, among others.
Speaking at the event, ASTUC Youth Wing President-General, Comrade Ken Okoli, said the awards were instituted to celebrate individuals whose lives, achievements, and selfless service inspire younger generations.
According to him, the recognition reflects the organisation’s commitment to promoting values that are essential for societal growth and sustainable development.
Okoli commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s value reorientation initiative, noting that the campaign would be extended to schools across the state to inculcate positive values in young people and sustain Anambra’s reputation as the “Light of the Nation.”
He also urged the organisation to continue identifying and celebrating ordinary citizens who have overcome challenges to make meaningful contributions to society.
The Chairman of the occasion and President-General of Aguleri, Mr. Chike Nwabia, alongside the ASTUC Youth Leader for Anambra East, Mr. Obiorah Odumegwu, and youth stakeholder, Engr. Chidi Obiudu, described young people as the driving force of every community.
They called for increased investment in youth development and commended the ASTUC Youth Wing for recognising outstanding personalities whose achievements serve as inspiration to others.
Responding on behalf of the award recipients, the member representing Anambra East Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Obi Nweke, former Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka, and community leader, High Chief Emeka Nwakalor, expressed gratitude for the honour, describing it as a motivation to continue serving their communities with dedication.
Speaking with journalists, Hon. Obi Nweke said Governor Chukwuma Soludo had demonstrated his commitment to youth inclusion by appointing many young people into key positions and introducing programmes such as the One Youth, Two Skills initiative.
He explained that the award initiative was aimed at replicating the governor’s vision at the grassroots by recognising role models in every community.
“We are recognising role models in every community because of the positive impact they are making. We urge them to continue influencing society positively. This initiative is youth-oriented, and it will encourage more people to become role models, thereby making our communities better,” he said.
Nweke described Governor Soludo as one of his role models, praising his commitment to doing what he believes is right regardless of public opinion. He also identified former United States President Barack Obama as another personal inspiration.
He further commended the governor for promoting merit-based employment, noting that qualified individuals can now secure government jobs without political connections.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Anambra East Local Government Area, Mr. Ifeanyi Chinweze, praised the ASTUC Youth Wing for recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to community development, particularly in youth empowerment.
He lamented the growing influence of the get-rich-quick syndrome among some youths in the Omambala area, describing it as contrary to the people’s cultural values and traditions.
“This recognition of individuals who are leading by good example will help create a positive shift in our communities. By celebrating integrity and service, we are encouraging others to embrace the right values,” he said.
The council chairman described the awards as a bold initiative that would inspire more community leaders and youths to contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.
He also urged young people to shun social vices and embrace the core values of integrity, discipline, and hard work, stressing that these remain the foundation for sustainable community development.
Other awardees, including High Chief Peter Odieli and High Chief Kenneth Ogugua, also appreciated the ASTUC Youth Wing for the recognition and applauded the Anambra State Government’s value reorientation programme and youth-friendly policies.
Highlights of the events were parades from different dance groups and entertainments
