The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Council, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu has rolled out the drums in commemoration of 100 days in office.
The celebration which was an outpouring of praises and commendations for successes recorded so far in their administration, took place to mark the leadership’s 100 days in office, shortly after May 2022 Congress.
The event was held at the NUJ Secretariat, Godwin Ezeemo International Press Centre, Awka, the Anambra State capital and it attracted members of the council across the state, religious leaders, scholars, and dignitaries including friends and well-wishers of the Council.
Some of the guests who spoke at the event expressed satisfaction with the leadership style of the Council Chairman, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu Ph.D., noting that his first 100 days have restored peace, harmony, and unity in the Union.
Declaring the event open, the Acting Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Mr. Gabriel Okpalaeze who chaired the occasion said “the hundred days in office is a success story and a mark of celebration.” He said the NUJ leadership in the State has done well and prayed that the administration continues to build on the successes they have achieved.
Congratulating the Council Exco, First Female Professor of Mass Communication in Nigeria, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Paul University Awka, Professor Stella Okunna noted that Dr. Odogwu-led NUJ leadership in the State had so far performed credibly well and urged them to sustain the zeal and tempo towards moving the Union forward. She reassured the council of her support for Odogwu’s leadership at all times.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Empowerment and Convener of Youths Earnestly Support Soludo, Dr. Nelson Omenugha also while commending the Council Exco’s feat, appealed to NUJ to cue into the program of the State government for the betterment of the State. Omenugha who was a guest for the month’s congress appealed for collaboration with the NUJ to empower the youths.
The Archbishop Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Anglican Communion, His Grace Most Revd. Alexander Ibezim praised the Union for its doggedness and contributions to the growth of democracy in the society.
Archbishop Ibezim, who was represented by an Archdeacon, Ven. Onyinyechukwu Ilione complained that some journalists often compromise in the course of their work. He urged the practitioners to live above their responsibilities in the society and embrace honesty and a spirit of comradeship while discharging their duties.
Archbishop Ibezim also urged the union to rally around the State government in its drive to lift the state from its many troubles.
In his remarks, Emeritus Chairman NUJ Anambra State, Comrade Chief Nathaniel Anigbo commended the Council Chairman, Comrade Odogwu for restoring the unity in the Union. He also advised him not to relent in carrying Union members along in all his dealings and he said the union is moving in the right direction.
Speaking to newsmen, Chairman NUJ Anambra Council, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Ph.D. attributed the success so far to the support from the union members and urged them not to relent for the soul of the union.
“I feel great and elated for the support from the members of the Union because without their support, I am a nobody. They gave me so much support, love and attention. We do everything with cordiality and it is visible that the union is marching forward.
“We have so far been able to unify the union members in the State and my administration has been able to carry everyone along as promised. The love of the Union has been restored. We didn’t course anyone to attend the function; members came on their own and it turned out to be quite impressive.
“We have attracted so many goodwills to the Union. We have a brand new bus donated to us by the Former Governor, Willie Obiano. We have equally attracted some developers and with time, the NUJ Secretariat will be turned around to be what it should be.
“I want Anambra NUJ to take the lead so that others will follow. NUJ is my passion and I want to take it to the next level so that those who would come after me would consolidate on the good works,” he enthused.
Comrade Odogwu urged the union members not to relent in their support and solidarity for the Union. He also charged them to shun acts that could bring division or truncate the existing peace and unity in the union.
At the event, Ada Anambra Universe, Queen Chisomeje Anyanechi presented gifts to appreciate the Council Chairman for his zeal and contributions to the growth of the Union and the State.
Also, Representatives of Leadway Insurance Ltd led by Assistant branch Manager, Chancel Ukpai urged the journalists to queue into insurance schemes to protect the wealth they have been able to accumulate in the course of their job.
Former Chairmen and Secretaries of the NUJ were in attendance including Nathaniel Anigbo, Chris Aghanya, Henry Nwasike, Francis Ekpone, and Emma Ifesinachi who is now the Zonal Vice President of the NUJ among others.
Former Secretaries including Mike Afa, and Emma Uduagha were also present.
Others include Prof Chinwe Uzochukwu, Immigration Boss in Anambra Odikpo Ngozi represented by O.A. Nweze, Public Relations guru, Dr Dennis Ekemezie,
The Council was feted with refreshments by the MD/CEO Ofiaku Kitchens Mr. Uchenna Okeke.
Olusola Akintonde
