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From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
The Convener of the World Igbo Summit, Prof. Gregory Ibe, has lauded Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for his sustained efforts in honouring distinguished Igbo leaders and patriots.
Prof. Ibe, who is also the founder of Gregory University Uturu (GUU), Abia State, made the commendation in a statement signed by the Deputy Registrar, Communication of GUU, Sleek Ogwo.
Prof Ibe observed with satisfaction that, in recent weeks, Otti has hosted a series of celebrations and tributes in honour of iconic figures who have made significant contributions to Igbo land in particular, and the nation at large.
The statement disclosed that among those honoured are Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, during his 85th birthday; General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, Nigeria’s first military Head of State, in a state-hosted remembrance ceremony; and Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike, former Minister of Education and Health, during his 83rd birthday celebration in Umuahia.
“Governor Otti also recently unveiled two United Nigeria Airlines Boeing 737-800NG aircraft named after Prof. Chinua Achebe and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Achebe, in Lagos. This is a fitting tribute to Igbo contributions to scholarship, leadership, and national development”, the statement added.
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Prof Ibe described the initiative as not only a veritable platform for rewarding patriotic and sacrificial contributions to societal development, but that it also serves to preserve the history, values, and identity of Ndigbo.
“What Governor Alex Otti has done is both timely and historic. By honouring our heroes while they are alive, and by remembering those who laid the foundation for our collective existence, he has restored dignity to public service and to our cultural heritage,” Prof. Ibe added.
He particularly applauded the non-partisan and non-sectarian approach adopted by the governor, stating, “I, particularly, commend the non-partisan and non-sectarian approach of the governor. The inclusion of leaders from different political backgrounds, ethnic affiliations, and professional callings for such honours demonstrates that governance can rise above politics to serve the greater good. This is leadership with vision,” he said.
Prof. Ibe further observed that the celebrations which go beyond age and titles, should offer vital lessons to the younger generation.
The World Igbo Summit Convener enjoined the governor to sustain the initiative, describing it as critical to nation building, cultural preservation, and the re-orientation of youth towards ethical leadership.
