By Ukpa Ewa
Friends, family, faith leaders and staff of the Anambra State Ministry of Information on December 30, gathered at the Godwin Ezeemo International Press Centre, Awka, to celebrate author and Information Officer, Obianuju Ekwughe–Azukaego, at the launch of her two novels, Rose Petals and The Glittering Spear.
The event, which drew professionals, entrepreneurs and creatives, went beyond a conventional book launch, serving as a platform for discussions on promoting a strong reading culture in an increasingly digital world. The novels were presented as works aimed at inspiring young people to embrace self discovery, resilience, hard work and integrity in navigating a troubled society.
Delivering his welcome address, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Osita Nwosu of Management and Planning Abia State University, commended the author’s effort and excellence, describing the books as worthy of wide readership.
He called on the Commissioner for Education Anambra State , Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh to recommend the books for secondary school students. Prof. Nwosu in his speech appreciated the author’s husband for providing a supportive environment for her to thrive and assured that the impact of the books would extend to universities and polytechnics. He further encouraged the author to continue writing and leave a lasting legacy.
Representing the former Governor of Anambra State Mr. Peter Obi at the event, Dr. Valentine Obienyem said that he had known the author for over 20 years, describing her as a woman of integrity, focus and hard work. He urged the public to purchase the novels, expressing confidence in their positive impact on readers and society.
In his goodwill message, the Director, Ministry of Information Anambra State , Pastor Emmanuel Emmanuel, described the novels as a blessing and praised the author as one of the ministry’s best staff. According to him, the wisdom and professionalism displayed by the author at work would reflect in her writing and recommended the books to individuals and organisations.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD, expressed pride that a Union member had authored the books. He commended the author for publishing despite current economic challenges and announced plans to distribute the novels among NUJ members for further engagement.
Unveiling the books, the author’s brother, Engr. Chike Ekwughe, said writing was an inborn gift for his sister and encouraged her to continue, noting that her future achievements would speak for themselves.
In her vote of thanks, Obianuju Ekwughe–Azukaego explained that the novels portray life as a challenging voyage requiring courage, hope and determination. She said the stories were written to redirect young minds from dubious shortcuts to success and toward patience, discipline and integrity.
The books, which carry a foreword by the Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, are described as reflections of real life experiences and are recommended particularly for students and youths as guides to positive values and responsible living.
Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
