The Chief Executive Officer / Executive Secretary, Abia State Diaspora Commission,(ADCOM), Amb. Rev Dr. Annie Onu has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting Community development initiatives and strengthening the bond between Abia’s global diaspora and their home communities.
Amb.Onu stated this when she led a delegation of officials of the Commission on an outreach mission to Akuro-Abia in Akanu Ohafia Local Government Area.
The visit forms part of activities of the newly established ADCOM Australian Chapter, aimed at strengthening grassroots development projects and partnerships between the Government, Abians in Diaspora and Local Communities.
Amb. Onu commended the impressive level of community-driven development in Akanu Ohafia, particularly the establishment of the Akanu Ohafia International School by an Australian based philanthropist, Chief Uduma Idika Uduma.
She noted that the school offers Free Education from Nursery to Secondary level, including learning materials, uniforms, meals, socks and books to support less privileged children in the Community.
The Diaspora Commission Boss, lauded the State Governor, Dr Alex Otti for his transformative leadership, noting that the initiative is a powerful complement to the Governor’s reforms in the Education Sector.
“Chief Uduma’s investment in these children demonstrates the spirit of service and compassion that Governor Alex Otti’s leadership has inspired across Abia.
“This project is a clear reflection of the spirit of social responsibility encouraged by Governor Otti’s administration so what we have seen here today is a shining example of grassroots service.
“This commitment to educating less privileged children aligns with the Governor’s vision of rebuilding Abia from the foundation and ADCOM is proud to support communities and individuals that are working hand-in-hand with Government to improve lives.
“This school has given hope to families who would otherwise struggle to provide education for their children.
“Our diaspora sons and daughters are eager to contribute meaningfully to Abia’s progress. What we have seen here today is a testament to that spirit”, she added.
On the Community’s request for a functional access road to enable pupils commute to the school conveniently, Amb.Onu expressed confidence that the State Government would address the concern.
In his Speech, Australia based Philanthropist, Chief Uduma Idika Uduma, described the visit of the ADCOM Boss as a remarkable demonstration of partnership between Government and Citizens.
Chief Uduma represented by his wife, Lolo Ifunanya Uduma explained that his vision to establish the school project was borne out of a commitment to providing children with the foundation they need to succeed in life.
He thanked Governor Otti, for giving Abians hope for a brighter future through his vision and good governance.
“Today’s gathering highlights how a state should work hand-in-hand with its people to foster shared purpose, unity and collective progress.
“The school’s mission was borne from a desire to give children the gift of education, a foundation every young person needs to thrive”, he stated.
Chief Uduma reaffirmed his commitment to supporting government-led initiatives that promote education, youth development and Community growth.
“It is this alignment of values, this shared belief in youth empowerment and community upliftment, that inspires many of us to stand behind the Governor’s leadership.
“When governance reflects the hopes of the people, it unites communities and moves Abia toward the future it deserves; progressive, inclusive, and stronger together.
“This is how a State should work with its citizens, in partnership with shared purpose”, he said.
The Australian based Philanthropist who called on Abians in Diaspora to contribute their quota towards the State’s development, acknowledged Rev. Dr Onu’s efforts in building Diaspora connections.
“Meeting her at a time when my team and I needed Government support has made giving back home far easier and more impactful”, he said.
Chief Uduma, however, drew attention to the deplorable condition of the access road leading from the Arochukwu Federal Road into the school, known as Nna Chief Uduma Road and explained that the 750-metre stretch has deteriorated so badly that pupils are now forced to walk more than 700 metres to reach the school.
He expressed optimism that the Governor would prioritise the rehabilitation of the road as part of his developmental agenda.
Earlier in his remarks, the Traditional Ruler and Ezie Ogo of Akanu Ohafia Autonomous Community, HRH Ezie Mba Odo Okereke (JP), underscored the importance of restoring the road, noting that despite the Community’s investment over the past two months to shore up both sides of the road with blocks and fill it with sand to raise the surface, the intervention has failed to yield the desired results.
He stressed that proper reconstruction of the road would enhance access and support the overall wellbeing and development of the Community.
