Faseu
By Mbidoaka Livinus
Okwudor Ancient Kingdom came alive with unity, colour and renewed determination as leaders, stakeholders and indigenes gathered to celebrate Okwudor Day 2025, an event that underscored the community’s shared resolve to rebuild, grow and chart a sustainable future.
Addressing the gathering, the Obi of Okwudor Ancient Kingdom, His Royal Highness, Eze Barr. Ben Chidi Onuora, described the celebration as a moment of thanksgiving and reflection, noting that it was the first Okwudor Day since his ascension to the throne. He expressed deep appreciation to Ndi Okwudor for their unwavering support and solidarity.
The monarch emphasized the importance of preserving Okwudor’s rich cultural heritage and core values of respect, hospitality, service and hard work. He noted that these values form the foundation upon which lasting development can be built. He also highlighted steps taken to strengthen governance through the Obi-in-Council and functional committees working in synergy with the Okwudor Peoples Assembly.
Eze Onuora outlined key development initiatives already underway, particularly in agriculture and youth empowerment. He disclosed that hundreds of improved palm seedlings have been planted across the community to reduce poverty, with plans to distribute more seedlings free of charge to widows, youths and the less privileged in 2026. He also announced the Okwudor Apprenticeship Scheme, under which 40 youths are currently receiving free vocational training in various trades and will be supported with basic working tools upon successful completion.
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Benard Jiburum, Professor of Surgery and Anatomy and Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon, challenged the community to rise and confront its challenges with courage and unity. He called for a return to sustainable agriculture as a pathway to economic stability and commended the people for ensuring that sons of Okwudor are elected into political offices, expressing optimism that such representation would deliver meaningful dividends of democracy.
In separate remarks, the member representing Njaba/Isu/Nwangele/Nkwerre Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Barr. Harrison Nwadike, and the Executive Chairman of Njaba Local Government Area, Chief Vitalis Obi, praised the Obi of Okwudor and the entire community for their collective spirit. They called for continuity, unity and sustainable growth as the pillars of Okwudor’s development agenda.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Ichie Anthony Enwere, thanked the people for standing together after the tragic events that once challenged the community. He urged Ndi Okwudor to sustain the unity achieved through continuous prayers, cooperation and support for the leadership of the ancient kingdom.
The celebration featured vibrant cultural displays, including Ekeleke and Orgazi dances, which captivated guests and showcased the depth of Okwudor’s cultural identity.
Dignitaries at the event included the House of Representatives member for Njaba/Isu/Nwangele/Nkwerre Federal Constituency, Hon. Barr. Harrison Nwadike; the Njaba State House of Assembly member, Hon. Worship Ebonine; the Executive Chairman of Njaba LGA, Chief Vitalis Obi; members of the Obi-in-Council led by Chief Anthony Uzowunne; the clergy led by Archbishop Ibemere; and numerous sons and daughters of Okwudor at home and in the diaspora.
As the celebrations drew to a close, a unifying message resonated across the kingdom: Okwudor’s strength lies in its people, its culture and its shared vision for progress, peace and sustainable development.
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