By Ukpa Ewa
Stakeholders of the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State (ANIAS) have honoured Chief Chinedu Nwoye Oba, popularly known as Lamido of Africa, in recognition of his outstanding humanitarian contributions to education, youth development and social stability in Nigeria.
The honour was conferred during a courtesy visit to Chief Oba at Ukpo, Dunukofia Local Government Area, where ANIAS also unveiled details of its flagship programme “Education For Our Future”. The initiative is part of ANIA’s partnership with the administration of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo aimed at removing children from the streets and reintegrating them into formal education.
Speaking during the visit, ANIAS President, Prince Chigozie Nweke, said the programme was designed to address rising social vices such as cultism and street crimes, which he noted are often linked to school dropouts. He explained that the initiative is being driven through churches, mosques and community engagement, with a strong focus on education and skills acquisition.
Prince Nweke also stressed the importance of proper data capturing of non-indigenes living across Anambra State, noting that a comprehensive database would enhance security, aid identification and support government efforts in crime prevention.
Representatives of various non-indigene communities Dr. Balami Daniel including leaders from northern and Ebonyi communities, as well as the ANIAS Youth Leader, Comrade Godwin Otu, commended the peaceful coexistence enjoyed in their host communities. They described Anambra State as welcoming and pledged their commitment to discouraging criminality while contributing positively to the state’s development.
In his response, Chief Chinedu Oba expressed gratitude for the recognition and accepted the role of Patron of ANIAS. He praised the association for promoting a data-driven and education-focused approach to security, describing it as timely and strategic. Chief Oba also commended Governor Soludo’s leadership, pledging full support to his administration.
Highlighting his philanthropic efforts, Chief Oba revealed that his foundation has sponsored over 100 students from university entry to graduation and remains active in healthcare support. He further announced plans to establish world-class hospitals across the three senatorial zones of Anambra State, supported by community dispensaries and a healthcare insurance trust fund.
The event was attended by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security and Anti-Cultism, Mr. Kinsley Ezika, the Vice President of the Hotel Association in Anambra State, Comrade Taiwo Ogunshola and members of ANIAS Elders Council. They all commended the initiative and called for sustained collaboration between government, host communities and non-indigenes.
ANIAS reaffirmed its resolve to tackle social vices and insecurity through education, skills acquisition and youth empowerment, with “Togetherness is Strength” adopted as its 2026 resolution.
