By Chukwuka Ugokwe
The Youth Wing of the Anambra State Town Unions Council (ASTUC) has honoured the Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Onyekachi Ibezim, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to youth empowerment and community development.
Also honoured at the ceremony were the member representing Awka North and South Federal Constituency, Prof. Lilian Orogbu, and nine distinguished role models drawn from communities in Awka South Local Government Area.
The event, held at Emmaus House Hall, Awka, also featured the presentation of the 12 Anambra Shared Values—fear of God, patriotism, self-reliance, discipline, life, truth, liberty, justice, community, dignity of labour, religious and ethnic tolerance, and love—as a moral compass for promoting peace, unity and sustainable development across the state.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Governor commended the youth body for championing positive values and encouraging responsible leadership among young people.
He urged the award recipients to remain exemplary ambassadors of good governance and community development, noting that many youths look up to them for inspiration.
Earlier, ASTUC Youth Wing President-General, Comrade Ken Okoli, described the awardees as exceptional role models whose dedication to youth development and selfless community service has made a lasting impact.
He stressed that communities thrive when they celebrate integrity, excellence and humanitarian service, adding that every community in Anambra is expected to nominate a role model annually through a structured selection process aimed at promoting leadership and accountability.
Representatives from the honoured communities of Nibo, Okpuno, Amawbia, Ezinator, Mbaukwu, Umuawulu, Nise, Awka and Isiagu expressed appreciation for the recognition, pledging to continue mentoring young people and contributing to community growth.
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Ozo Uchenna Nwoye, Chief Christian Orji and Chief Ifeanyi Obi reaffirmed their commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that will expand opportunities for youths, strengthen grassroots development and accelerate the progress of Awka South and Anambra State at large.
Tags: Anambra, ASTUC, Onyekachi Ibezim, Lilian Orogbu, Youth Development
