By John Ugo, Awka
Former Secretary of the Common Wealth of Nations, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, and Obi of Onitsha His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Achebe were among eminent personalities honoured on Wednesday with Anambra State Grand Commander Medals and other category of awards by Governor Willie Obiano.
This is as Nigeria’s first President Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, former Vice President Alex Ekwueme, former Senate President Chief Chuba Okadigbo and that of the ex-Director of the National Agency for Foods and Drugs Administration (NAFDAC) Professor Dora Akunyili were honoured posthumously in the state.
The ceremony was the official commissioning of the newly build 13, 000 seater International Convention Center, launch of the book ‘Akpokuedike” written by Prince Ike Chioke and presentation of his legacy achievements in the last eight years of his administration under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), held in Awka the state capital.
Chief Emeka Anyaoku who was the Chairman of the occasion described the event as an extra ordinary occasion meant to honor extra ordinary man with a sense of mission.
Anyaoku noted that, “Obiano remains one of the most prepared leaders Nigeria ever had. He really proved he was prepared for the office.
“I’m pleased to associate myself with Obiano. I didn’t know him, but the predecessor who introduced him to me assured me he was capable.
According to him, “There’s no doubt that his administration has transformed the state in terms of security, infrastructure, among others. He’s living behind legacies that would not be forgotten in a hurry.”
However, the Governor-elect of the state, Professor Charles Soludo, was conspicuously absent at the ceremony which witnessed who is who in the state.
The late awardees from the state were honoured post humously with the Grand Commander and Commander Medal awards by Governor Willie Obiano, for their contributions to both the country and the state in particular.
Also honoured by the governor during the event include former Secretary General of the Common Wealth of Nation, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, first republic Aviation Minister Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Mr. Peter Obi, former chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) Chief Simon Okeke, Senators Ben Obi, Uche Ekwunife and Victor Umeh.
The governor further appreciated members of the state House of Assembly, judges and captains of industries and other who have made their marks in various fields of human endeavours and to the development of the state.
Governor Obiano said all the awards categories were backed by Anambra State honors law of 1995.
He said the awardees contributed immensely to his 8-year administration.
In his speech Obi of Onitsha, Igwe HRM Alfred Achebe, described the governor as a man that ruled Anambra most successfully, including the support he gave to Royal fathers in the State.
The royal father said “I dreamt of Obiano before he emerged. He brought his banking experience to bear in the eight years he held sway. He gave the monarchs unquantified support. He presented over 60 certificates to traditional rulers,” he said.
It would be recalled that Obiano will leave office as Governor on March 17 as his successor and Governor elect, Prof.charles Soludo takes over the reins of power in the state.
