By Ukpa Ewa
The Anambra State Town Union Council Youth Wing (ASTUC Youth) has honoured outstanding individuals in Nnewi South Local Government Area for their contributions to community development while promoting the shared values and cultural identity of Ndi Anambra. The event, held at the Nnewi South Local Government Council Secretariat, Ukpor, on November 12, attracted youths, community leaders, men, women and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the ceremony, the President of ASTUC Youth, Comrade Ken Okoli, expressed appreciation to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for inspiring the initiative, which commenced on June 19, 2026, to promote positive values and recognise individuals making meaningful contributions across communities in Anambra State.
Okoli commended the governor’s leadership, particularly his efforts in addressing insecurity and restoring public confidence in communities. He assured that Anambra youths were committed to sustaining and consolidating the governor’s achievements, stressing that the state belonged to its people.
He further emphasised the importance of positive role models in shaping the future of young people, warning that communities without exemplary individuals risk losing their sense of direction. He identified the core values of Ndi Anambra as fear of God, patriotism, self-reliance, truth, liberty, discipline, religious and ethnic tolerance, and love, urging youths to uphold these values.
In his remarks, the Chairman of ASTUC, Sir Vin Dike, expressed concern over the growing tendency among some young people to admire individuals involved in criminal activities such as kidnapping and internet fraud. While acknowledging the challenges confronting Nigerian youths, particularly unemployment, he urged them not to allow the country’s difficulties to define their future.
Dike maintained that genuine role models were identified by their character, integrity and positive contributions to society rather than material possessions. He encouraged young people to remain focused, avoid negative influences and maximise available opportunities, pledging continued support for those pursuing education and personal development.
Speaking on his political ambition ahead of the 2027 general election, Dike, who is aspiring to represent Ekwusigo, Nnewi North and Nnewi South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, said his ambition was motivated by a passion for service and a desire to contribute to societal development.
One of the award recipients, Mr Tochukwu Emmanuel Okeke, expressed appreciation to ASTUC Youth for the recognition, describing the honour as motivation to do more for humanity.
He disclosed that his Tochi Emmanuel Foundation had undertaken various humanitarian interventions, including housing projects, educational support, distribution of school bags and provision of wheelchairs to persons in need. He urged other well-meaning individuals to contribute positively to the development of their communities.
Other award recipients included Nze Ekene Ndujekwu of Unubi; Nze Ebuka Eboh of Ezinifite; Chief Agbasi Chukwukalumalu of Utuh; Mr Emmanuel Ezeani of Amichi among others. The Mayor of Nnewi South Local Government Area, Hon. Van-George Ezeogidi, was also among the distinguished personalities honoured at the ceremony.
Ukpa Ewa is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State.
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