31st Anniversary in grand style with Governor Okezie Ikpeazu honoring distinguished Abians for their exceptional contributions towards the development of the state.
The Ceremony which was held in Umuahia, to mark the Grand finale of a week long activity marking the 31st anniversary celebration of the creation of Abia State had Governor Ikpeazu rename the International Conference Centre, venue of the celebration to Ochendo International Conference Centre in honour of his predecessor, Senator T.A Orji.
Prestigious Awards of Enyi Abia, Oke Osisi Abia, Oke Oji Abia, Ada Ugo Abia and Odo Abia were also conferred on Nine deserving Abians including Ambassador Empire Kanu(Enyi Abia), Dr. Alozie Ananaba ( Oke Oji Abia), Prof Maduike Ezeibe(Oke Oji Abia), and Mrs Chinenyem Ozoemela(Ada Ugo Abia) for their numerous contributions to the progress, peace and development of the state.
In his remarks, Governor Ikpeazu, who also used the occasion to present staff of office to Thirty Five traditional rulers of various autonomous communities in the State charged them to ensure peace and security reign in their communities.
The Governor while congratulating recipients of the Honours/ Merits awards, lauded their commitment, love and service to the State.
Governor Ikpeazu said that though, the state has not gotten to her expected destination, “Abia is a work in progress”, describing peace and security as the greatest achievement of Abia at 31.
He paid glowing tributes to the founding fathers of the State who he said “worked tirelessly to ensure the actualization of the creation of Abia State”, and wished the entire people of Abia State, a happy 31st anniversary.
Earlier, the acting Chairman of Abia State Advisory Council, Sir Chikezie Wachuku called for the collective efforts of all to achieve a secure and safe Abia urging citizens to be their brother’s keeper.
He used the forum to commend the State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu for his human and infrastructural development in the last 7 years especially, the provision of a Long Term Development Plan which spans from 2020-2050, which he said is the first comprehensive plan towards a systematic development of the state and urged successive administrations to ensure optimal utilization of the plan for the greater good of the State.
The 2022 Abia Day Celebration, featured the cutting of the anniversary cake, A lecture presentation titled, “A Competitive Abia Economy Using The Small And Medium Enterprises As A Pilot For Viral And Strong Abia Of The Future” by the Head, Department of Management, ABSU , Dr. Chukwu Udensi as well as well as the launch of two books – “The Torrents Of Testimonies: Voices From Abia State Nigeria written by The Commissioner for Information Dr Eze Chikamnayo and “Power With A Purpose” and was attended by a galaxy of Abia personalities.
