The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, has called for renewed commitment to discipline, integrity, and cultural values as he declared open the Ohafia Reorientation Summit 2026, held at Elu-Ohafia in Ohafia Local Government Area.
Speaking on the theme, “Reawakening the Ohafia Spirit,” Emetu described the summit as timely and necessary, stressing that it was a moment for reflection and responsibility rather than blame.
“Ohafia has always been known for courage, discipline, honour, and unity. These values built our communities and earned us respect across generations. But values do not sustain themselves people sustain them,” he said.
The Deputy Governor expressed concern over rising cases of drug and substance abuse, cultism, criminality, vandalism of public infrastructure, and moral decline among youths.
He noted that while the government continues to invest in infrastructure and reforms, mindset transformation remains crucial to sustainable development.
“Roads, schools, and power projects are important, but mindset transformation is even more critical. A reawakened Ohafia Spirit must reflect respect for life and dignity, protection of public assets, responsible relationships, productive engagement of youth energy, and leadership anchored on integrity,” he stated.
He urged youths to resist negative peer pressure and short-term temptations, encouraging them to embrace education, enterprise, agriculture, innovation, and community development.
Emetu also called on traditional rulers, religious institutions, and families to take active roles in guiding the younger generation, emphasizing that reorientation begins at home. He expressed optimism that reviving the Ohafia spirit would strengthen both the community and Abia State at large.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Kalu Ikpemiri, stressed the need to restore the cultural standing and moral fabric of the Ohafia people. He described the reorientation initiative as vital to defending the values and traditions for which the community is known.
“Our youths have always been vibrant and guided by ethics and cultural values. Whatever has gone wrong must be corrected. Ohafia people are not known for vices. We must return to our roots,” he said.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Abia State Orientation Agency, Mrs. Urenna Abazie, delivered a lecture titled “Reawakening the Ohafia Spirit and Reshaping the Minds of Our Future Leaders.” She described the summit as a strategic intervention aimed at restoring moral direction and strengthening identity among young people.
Abazie recalled Ohafia’s historic reputation for bravery, discipline, and communal bonds, urging collective efforts from parents, schools, religious bodies, community leaders, and government to reshape young minds.
“Strength without character is dangerous. Intelligence without values is destructive. Ambition without discipline leads to ruin,” she cautioned, advocating sustained mentorship and civic education beyond the summit.
In his presentation, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Hon. Ikechukwu Monday, represented by Mr. Uzo Kalu, said the summit aligns with the New Abia Agenda focused on development, accountability, and sustainability.
He warned against vandalism of public facilities, noting that the destruction of electricity installations, water systems, roads, schools, and hospitals leads to blackouts, business losses, insecurity, and delayed development.
He added that constant repairs drain resources meant for new projects and discourage investors, thereby reducing job opportunities.
Other speakers included the Abia State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. O.C. Chigbu, who spoke on drug abuse prevention, and Mrs. Emeka Mannic, who delivered a lecture on HIV/AIDS advocacy and consultation.
The event attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, women’s organisations, and other stakeholders. It ended with a collective resolve to promote value-based leadership, responsible youth engagement, and community-driven development across Ohafia.
