By Chukwuka Ugokwe
The Anambra State Town Unions Council (ASTUC) Youth Wing has honoured Deputy Governor of the State, Dr Onyekachi Ibezim, in recognition of his immense contributions to youth development.
It also honoured the Member Representating Awka North and South Constituency, Prof Lilian Orogbu, alongside nine selected role models under Awka South Local Government Area.
The 12 Anambra Community shared values including fear of God, patriotism, self reliance, discipline, life, truth, liberty, justice, community, dignity of labour, religious and ethnic tolerance, and love were also presented to them as a guide for fostering peace, unity and development.
At the event held at Emmaus House Hall, Awka, on Saturday, June 4, Dr Ibezim, commended the youth body for promoting positive values, underscoring the need for them to remain focused while participating actively in building a prosperous state.
He urged the award recipients to serve as ambassadors of good governance and community development, noting that many young people look up to them for inspiration.
Earlier, the President General, ASTUC Youth Wing, Comrade Ken Okoli, described the recipients as role models whose efforts in youth development and community service have left a lasting impact.
He urged young people to emulate their dedication, excellence, and humanitarian spirit, stressing that a community without positive role models risks fracturing its social fabric.
“I believe in Anambra Core Value system. A community lacking a clear moral compass or inspirational figures can face several overarching challenges”
According to him, each community in the state is expected to nominate a role model annually through a structured selection process designed to promote leadership, integrity, and community service.
Some of those honoured from the nine communities of Nibo, Okpuno, Amawbia, Ezinator, Mbaukwu, Umuawulu, Nise, Awka and Isiagu, appreciated the honour bestowed on them, saying they would remain consistent in being role models for the youths while lifting them up always.
In their separate speeches, Ozo Uchenna Nwoye, Chief Christian Orji, Chief Ifeanyi Obi reaffirmed their commitment to championing policies and initiatives that will create more opportunities for youths, strengthen community development and advance the collective progress of Awka local government area.
