Indigenes of Anambra State in Abuja and environs have called for unity so that they can advance in business, trade, politics, careers and vocations.
They spoke on Saturday at the 2023 Anambra Day celebration organised by the Abuja Chapter of Anambra State Town’s People Association (ASTPA) held at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.
In his address, a former chairman of the Police Service Commission, Chief Nsobundu Simon Okeke (Ochendo Amichi) said, “Anambra is known to be The Light of the Nation. Take note that there is something in a name and since we have chosen to answer ‘The Light of the Nation’, we are expected to live up to that name, otherwise it becomes derisive and a misnomer.”
Anambra Day is a yearly event that brings together Anambrarians to mark the end of the year.
This year’s event was marked with a symposium with the theme: “Maka Idozi Anambra,” meaning the “Development of Anambra”.
Okeke said, “Let us not become a laughing stock of the country but a shining example of what is expected from ideal men and women of the progressive and sometimes aggressive and restless people that we are. We therefore owe our state a duty to live up to our name by virtue of the way we compose ourselves both publicly and privately, in our businesses, our trade habits, our office manners, in our schools and colleges.
“I am directing this specifically to our Anambra youths. Our people become known to conquer most physical, natural and man-made obstacles on their way to business pursuits. Our legendary swift moves to succeed where others have failed by the side should be something to be thankful to our God. But this should be without being arrogant and too loud. Some of our youths are known to be too loud in their victory over all odds of their business pursuits. Our being loud and arrogant attracts the envy and disgust of our neighbours and host communities.
Such trends are alien to the core values of Ndigbo.
“Let it be known that being our brothers’ keepers is one of the core tenets of Onye Igbo.”
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives member representing Aguata federal constituency, Anambra State, Hon Dom Okafor, said Anambra, a land blessed with exceptional human capital, a rich history, and abundant natural resources, has been a birthplace of extraordinary individuals who have excelled in various fields, both domestically and internationally.
“We must prioritise infrastructure development. Our roads, bridges, and public utilities need upgrades to support economic activities and enhance the ease of doing business in Anambra State.
“We must invest in sustainable energy solutions and harness our state’s agricultural potential to create jobs, reduce poverty and stimulate economic growth.
“As we commemorate this special day, let us remember that our strength lies in our unity. We must rise above ethnic, religious and political differences and work collectively towards the common goal of a better Anambra,” he said.
Earlier, the president-general of Anambra State Towns (People) Association (ASTPA), Arinze Anadu, called on well-meaning Ndi Anambra and various town unions to provide funds for individuals that have gone through skills acquisition programmes and those deemed fit to access educational grants and scholarships.
“We engage in skills acquisition and training exercises for Ndi Anambra living in FCT. During this exercise, the participants are engaged in leadership and entrepreneurial skills and other electives like electronic installation, internet development/management, DStv/CCTV installation among others,” he said.
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