By Udodirim Oti, Awka
His Royal Majesty, Igwe Dr.
MacAnthony Chinedu Elibe Okonkwo of Alor, in Idemili South Local Government
Area, has described his nomination for the "NUJ Philanthropist of the
Decade" award as his best award nomination ever.
Igwe Okonkwo, who is also the
Ezedioramma III of Alor Kingdom, made this statement after receiving the
nomination letter presented to him by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ)
Anambra State Council Chairman, Comrade Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, on behalf of
the union. The presentation took place at his palace in Alor, witnessed by
several Alor indigenes and NUJ members in attendance.
The obviously excited
first-class royal father expressed his happiness at being the preferred choice
for the highly coveted maiden honor, which will be bestowed upon him at a
colorful ceremony scheduled for November 7, 2024, at the Godwin Ezeemo
International Press Center, NUJ Secretariat Complex, Awka.
Justifying his nomination, Igwe
Okonkwo traced his generous spirit to his childhood: "I saw myself giving out
what I had at a young age. Even while I was in secondary school, I shared my
things with fellow students." He added, "I have trained more than 30
billionaires—20 in Alor and 10 in other communities. At Eke Umuogbo (a location
in Alor town), we distributed lands, developed them, and handed them over to
people; we even built a Catholic church there. In 2014, we shared 150 keke
Napep with our people, while about 72 students are beneficiaries of my
scholarship scheme."
"In Alor, I have built
houses for indigent families in my community. Fifteen people have benefited
from my SUVs. It’s important to mention that I do not discriminate, no matter
your denomination or belief. I am overwhelmed because I didn't know people were
watching what we have been doing since my ascension to the throne of my
ancestors. In fact, this award will be the best I am going to receive."
Earlier, the NUJ Chairman,
Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD, stated that the nomination did not come
easily due to the rigorous processes involved in arriving at this final stage
after surpassing over 100 other qualified contestants. He further explained
that selecting the nominee was a huge task, but the panel did a meticulous job,
resisting every attempt to compromise the process.
"It is not about money;
rather, it's about what people are saying regarding your philanthropic
gestures," he noted. He emphasized that Igwe Okonkwo of Alor will make
history on November 7, 2024, when the award is bestowed upon him, as he will be
the first ever to receive such recognition from NUJ in both New Anambra and Old
Anambra State.
Dr. Odogwu mentioned that in line with NUJ, Anambra State tradition, elaborate arrangements are underway, including massive publicity through both online and traditional media, such as billboards, newspapers, radio, television, and digital platforms, to ensure a resounding ceremony. "We are happy that all of you are here affirming what we are saying today," Odogwu said to the Alor youths present at the occasion.
"Under my watch as NUJ chairman
for the past three years, no one can toy with the union. We have the capacity
to deliver a successful event. We will celebrate him because he deserves
it."
Also speaking at the occasion,
Kasie Abone shed light on the rigorous process the award nomination underwent
to ensure the selection of the best candidate. According to her, over 100
nominees went through screening before the best candidate emerged.
Winning the
"Philanthropist of the Decade" award signifies that one ascended the
throne prepared to touch the lives of their subjects; otherwise, it would not
make sense to win the award. "From the first day on the throne, he started
impacting the lives of his people. This award is especially honorable as it
coincides with your 10th anniversary on the throne; it is worthy of
celebration."
"What makes the NUJ award
nomination process tough is our commitment to ensuring that we select the most
credible person, who must emerge through popular votes. We put you on a scale
to determine whom we are presenting to the world; the scale certainly tilted in
your favor."
"Odogwu, as our chairman,
adds a magic touch to whatever he does. When he signs something, it signifies
that it has credibility and authenticity," Kasie concluded.
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