By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja
The Executive Director, South East Development Commission (SEDC), Dr Sylvester Onuora Okonkwo, (Okwuluora Ojoto) has commended the Anambra State Towns People Association (ASTPA) for its efforts in promoting unity and love among Anambra indigenes in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In a keynote address at the 2025 Edition of Anambra Day at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium in Abuja, the Executive Director praised the ASTPA for their tireless efforts in promoting unity and preserving the cultural heritage of the Anambra people, even as he reiterated the importance of unity, brotherhood, and collective responsibility.
Dr. Okonkwo repeatedly praised the ASTPA for their tireless efforts in promoting unity and preserving the cultural heritage of the Anambra people. He commended the association’s initiatives, such as the ASTPA Model City in Ikem, Nando, which have contributed significantly to the empowerment of the community.
The keynote address centered on the Igbo aphorism: “O nuru ube nwanne agbana oso,” which translates to “He who hears the cry of a brother must hasten to it and act as a brother.” Dr. Okonkwo emphasized the significance of this aphorism in Igbo culture, highlighting its relevance in contemporary times.
He drew inspiration from other cultures, including the Chinese and Jewish communities, which have successfully harnessed the power of brotherhood and collective responsibility to drive economic growth and development. Dr. Okonkwo urged the Anambra community to contextualize the aphorism in modern times, emphasizing the need for unity, empathy, and mutual support.
Hailing the organizers and urged continued peace and unity among members, host community and other states in the Federal Capital Territory were Chief Ikechukwu Nwokechi, the Igweawobu of Dusogu, Awkuzu, Chief Vitus Ofodum the Ikenga Mbawsi and
Chief Basil Okafor, the Ichie Dusogu III in Awkuzu.
Sir Arinze Anadu (Nwachinemelu), President General of ASTPA, expressed deep appreciation to committee members and participating town unions for their remarkable contributions, commitment, and compliance, which made the event a resounding success.
He again hailed the organizers and urged town unions to continue promoting the rich cultural heritage of Anambra State.
The PG however commended Senator Ben Obi (Ojeligbo), Chairman of the occasion, and other dignitaries, including Chief Simon Okeke (Ochendo), a former Police Service Commission Chairman, Chief (Mrs.) Christy Uba, (Odiuko na Mba 1 of Ekwulobia), and his almata, the Executive Director, South East Development Commission (SEDC), Dr. Sylvester Onuora Okonkwo, (Okwuluora Ojoto) for his immense contributions and inspiring words of advice which, according to him contributed in no small measure to make the 2025 event successful.
The celebration served as a platform for the community to come together and celebrate their shared identity, with a renewed commitment to work towards the progress and prosperity of the region.
