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By Henry Uche
The Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has felicitated Abia indigenes living in Austria as they mark the 10th year anniversary of the formation of their union.
In a goodwill message, the Deputy Speaker, while celebrating his people, said the milestone was not only a testament to the unity, resilience, and vision of his brothers and sisters in Diaspora, but also a proud reflection of the values and cultural strength that define the people of Abia State – home or abroad.
He recalled that over the past decade, the community has remained committed to promoting its heritage, fostering civic responsibility, and contributing meaningfully to the advancement of Abia State.
“I particularly commend your medical equipment initiative, which demonstrates a deep sense of solidarity and commitment to the well-being of our people. Such initiatives exemplify the powerful role the diaspora can play in driving grassroots impact and bridging global partnerships for local progress.
“As you celebrate this remarkable occasion, I extend my best wishes for a successful and memorable event. May your collective efforts continue to strengthen the bonds between the diaspora and our homeland, and may the next decade be even more impactful and unifying for your community,” he prayed.
In a similar message, the Speaker, Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa, on behalf of the members, management and staff of the state House of Assembly, felicitated with the Abia community in Austria on the same occasion, describing it as a celebration of their heritage and collective achievements.
Slated for November 15th, Emeruwa maintained that the milestone, indeed, reflects the decade of unity and cultural pride, which has contributed immensely to the development of Abia State.
“We are happy to identify with you and all that you stand for on this auspicious event. It is our earnest hope and expectation that the anniversary will help to strengthen the bond of love and unity among Abians in Austria and fostering growth and community service which indeed has come to stay.
“We wish you a peaceful, successful, and memorable event and pray God Almighty to guide you aright as you oversee the affairs of the Abia State Community in Vienna Austria,” he added.
In a remark, the Co-Founder/Chairman, Abia State Community in Austria, Chief Sunday Okorie, joined the well wishers, Abians across the globe, and friends of Abia people to congratulate his people in the diaspora. For him, the anniversary is not just a celebration of time but also a celebration of purpose, growth, and unity.
“It is a day to reflect on how far we have come and to look ahead to an even brighter future. As the co-founder and current chairman of this great organisation, I speak today with deep gratitude and a strong sense of responsibility.
“Our journey has not always been easy, but through our shared commitment and unity of purpose, we have built something truly meaningful. My personal journey with Abia State community in Austria has been long and humbling.
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“I have served this organisation faithfully in various capacities over the years as General Secretary, Publicity Secretary, Vice Chairman, and now as the Chairman.”
Okorie added that it was a privilege to contribute to the development of his community in the previous positions he occupied, noting that he was the longest-serving member of the association, he attributed it to a testament of his dedication, passion, and belief in the vision that brought them together from the beginning.
“Since taking office as chairman, we have made tremendous progress as a community. Together, we have taken bold steps, strengthened our structures, and made real, visible impact. Some of our key achievements include reorganising and restructuring the association, giving it a stronger, more unified foundation that will serve us well for years to come.
“Establishing the official positions of Patron and Matron to honour and involve respected elders whose wisdom continues to guide and inspire us; purchasing and donating wheelchairs through the Abia Community Medical Equipment Initiative, directly supporting those in our community who are most in need.”
He recalled that the association also attracted two major sponsors, “whose generous support reflects the growing respect and recognition for our association’s work; Presenting Excellence Awards to outstanding members who have demonstrated loyalty, commitment, and excellence in service to our community. These accomplishments did not come by chance. They are the result of hard work, collective effort, and a shared belief in which we are and what we stand for.”
Okorie, who also appreciated past leaders, members, and his family for their contributions, sacrifices, and support, encouraged his people to take pride in what they have achieved despite numerous tasks ahead.
“We are all part of one big family, and it is your belief in the mission of Abia Community in Austria that has sustained us through the years. This celebration should reignite our commitment to unity, to service, and to build a legacy of excellence that those coming after us will be proud of. Let us continue to lift one another, to support our leaders, to honour our values, and to protect the bond that makes us one family.
“Let this anniversary renew our spirit of togetherness and our determination to leave a lasting legacy not just in Austria, but for Abians everywhere. Together, we are not just making history. We are making Abia community great again,” he assured.
Similarly, the Executive Mayor of Aba South Local Government Area of Abia State, Hon. Obialor Anyanwu in a goodwill message affirmed that the people of Aba South are proud of the entire members of the Abia State Community in Vienna, specifically, their giant strides in improving the health sector.
He prayed the Almighty God to grant the community the best leadership to reach greater heights.
“It is with warm regards that I write to felicitate with the entire members of the Abia State Community in Vienna, Austria, on the occasion of your 10th Anniversary Celebration and the official launch of your Medical Equipment Initiative.
“On behalf of the good people of Aba South Local Government Area, please accept our best regards as you mark this milestone anniversary,” he noted.
