By Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah
The spirit of unity, culture and gratitude took centre stage as the Awoidemili Progressive Union (APU), Owerri Branch, rolled out a colourful end-of-the-year party, graciously sponsored by Mr. Terence Onyejiaku, at the Orient FM Compound, Owerri.
The well-attended event brought together sons and daughters of Awoidemili from different walks of life, traditional rulers, community leaders and friends of the union, all drawn by a shared commitment to communal progress and cultural pride.
Adding royal dignity to the celebration was His Royal Highness, Eze Dr. Innocent I. Okoligwe, Okukoro II, the Igwe of Awo Idemili, whose presence underscored the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in fostering peace, identity and development within the community.
A major highlight of the occasion was the attendance of the Special Guest of Honour, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri, Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe ,a proud daughter of the celebrating community. She was warmly received and accompanied to the event by top functionaries of the institution, a gesture that reflected both institutional solidarity and personal attachment to her roots.
In her remarks to the community, Dr. (Mrs.) Igbokwe commended the Awoidemili Progressive Union for sustaining unity among its people, noting that strong communities are built on shared values, mutual respect and active participation of their members at home and in the diaspora. She encouraged continued support for education, youth empowerment and community driven development initiatives, emphasizing that progress is fastest when tradition and modern leadership work hand in hand. She also expressed gratitude for the love shown to her, describing it as a source of strength and renewed commitment to service.
The celebratory atmosphere was further heightened by a thrilling musical band that held the audience spellbound, delivering energetic performances that kept guests entertained throughout the event. The ambience reflected joy, relaxation and a deep sense of belonging.
In a grand show of generosity, the sponsor of the event, Mr. Terence Onyejiaku, distributed surprise hampers to attendees. The gesture drew loud applause and left beaming smiles on the faces of guests and Awoidemili people, reinforcing the values of sharing and collective happiness that define the community.
As the curtains drew on the event, one message resonated clearly: no matter one’s height in society, tradition and community remain indispensable anchors of identity. This principle was vividly exemplified by Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, whose presence, humility and engagement reaffirmed the enduring bond between leadership, culture and communal responsibility.
The Awoidemili Progressive Union’s end-of-year party was not just a celebration, it was a reaffirmation of unity, gratitude and the timeless strength of community relations.
