The traditional ruler of Alor in Idemili South Local Government Area His Royal Majesty, Igwe Dr. MacAnthony Chinedu Elibe Okonkwo has described his nomination for the “NUJ Philanthropist of the Decade” award as his best ever.
Igwe Okonkwo, 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.
Angel Network News (ANN) gathered that
the presentation took place at his palace in Alor, witnessed by several Alor indigenes and NUJ members in attendance.
The 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. In his words;
“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.
“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.”
NUJ Chairman, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD, in his speech 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.
Dr. Odogwu 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.
The NUJ Chairman 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.
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.
