The people of Umuekwule Autonomous Community in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State have honoured their son, Comrade Chibuike Emmanuel, for attracting 245 solar-powered street lights to the community.
The solar street lights have been installed across major roads and strategic locations within the community. They have significantly improved nighttime visibility, enhanced security, and transformed the environment.
Presenting the honour at his palace, the UGA IV of Nkwoegwu Autonomous Community, Afugiri, in Umuahia North LGA, Eze Chijioke Chikwekwem, said the community gathered to celebrate one of its illustrious sons for facilitating the life-changing project.
According to the monarch, the solar street lights have been installed across the nooks and crannies of the community, illuminating previously dark areas and making the environment safer and more attractive.
He appealed to other sons and daughters of the community to emulate Comrade Emmanuel’s gesture by contributing to the development of Umuekwule.
“Our children need scholarships, our women require financial support to grow their businesses, and there are many other areas where our people need assistance. We call on all those connected to this community to come home and support its development,” the traditional ruler said.
In his remarks, the President General of Umuekwule Autonomous Community, Mr. Ebo Chikwendu, described the project as a remarkable intervention that would positively transform the community.
He noted that light symbolizes progress and success, adding that gratitude remains a pathway to greater achievements.
“We are gathered here today to express our appreciation to Comrade Chibuike Emmanuel for remembering his maternal home. This project will transform Umuekwule in many ways. Let us continue to appreciate one another, and promote love, unity and forgiveness, because these are the foundations of a peaceful and progressive community,” he said.
Also speaking, the Palace Secretary of Nkwoegwu Autonomous Community, High Chief C.C. Chukwu, and the Village Head, Royal High Chief Ekeoba Sydney Obinna, commended Comrade Emmanuel’s commitment to community development and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon him.
The women leaders of the community, led by the President General of Umuekwule Women, Mrs. Chisara Ahaba, alongside High Chief Mrs. Oluchi Nwosu, expressed gratitude for the project. They noted that the installation of the solar street lights has drastically improved security.
According to them, residents, especially women and children, can now move freely at night without fear of robbery or attacks, as the once-dark roads are now brightly illuminated.
Responding, Comrade Chibuike Emmanuel expressed gratitude to the community for the honour bestowed on him, describing it as one of the greatest moments of his life.
He said the project was attracted to his maternal home to improve security, ease movement at night, and enhance the overall beauty of the community.
“This is one of the happiest days of my life. I have never received this kind of recognition before. I dedicate this honour to the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, whose leadership has created opportunities for young people to make meaningful contributions to society. I will never disappoint him because I derive great joy from impacting lives,” he said.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Governor of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, PMAN, Abia State Chapter, High Chief Ejeh Williams, said the project would usher in greater development for the community, stressing that light is synonymous with growth, progress and prosperity.
He commended Comrade Chibuike Emmanuel for attracting such a people-oriented project and urged others to emulate his commitment to community development.
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of food items, a fat ram, and a beautifully made portrait to Comrade Emmanuel Chibuike, followed by a special prayer session offered on his behalf.
Community Honours Comrade Emmanuel For Attracting 245 Solar Street Lights
