By Ifeanyichukwu Ibe
An eminent indigene of Imo State, Johnpaul Ochemba (Asi na Obughi Chineke) was the delight of participants, especially media practitioners on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, as he received the prestigious “Most Outstanding Media Promoter 2024 Award” during the maiden South East Media Summit in Owerri the Imo State capital with the theme: “The Media, Ethical Responsibility and Democracy: South East in Perspective.”
The celebrated business magnet and illustrious son of Ntueke Autonomous Community, Ideato South LGA of Imo State, who has endeared himself to the hearts of many because of his numerous exploits in business, humanitarian works and community development was among few other eminent awardees, including Governor Hope Uzodimma, Sir Ikedi Ohakim, Dr. Ejike Chukwu, Prof Vitalis Ajumbe, High Chief Dr Michael Onuoha and Okenze Sylvester Obinna.
Making the presentation, a revered traditional ruler, HRH, Eze Dr. Oliver Ohanwe, highlighted Ochemba’s huge contributions towards media development in Imo State and the southeast as well as in other areas of the society, stating that such passion backed by tangible actions by the awardee have drawn the attention and commendations of the public, hence the honour done to him. Eze Ohanwe encouraged Ochemba to continue his good works for the benefits of humanity.
In his response, Johnpaul Ochemba who received loud ovation during the ceremony, thanked the organizers for finding him worthy of the honour, as well as appreciating media practitioners in the state and region for their tireless efforts towards making the society a better place for all.
Ochemba, a multiple award recipient from various notable local and international organizations, described the summit as timely in bringing practitioners and the general public together towards appreciating the activities of the media in moving the society forward as well as finding ways of making practitioners more formidable in promoting peace, social and economic development in the southeast geopolitical region.
He, however, pointed out the need for media practitioners in Imo State and the southeast to be united in order to pursue their professional duties in the society effectively, disclosing the great confidence the society reposes on them. He counseled them to shun actions capable of bringing disunity and disrepute among themselves, but to always be united and strive to perform their duties in ways that should be worthy of emulation by practitioners from other parts of the country.
Promising to always support the media practitioners in the zone, Johnpaul Ochemba, further encouraged the practitioners to strengthen their capacities with improved knowledge of the modern media practice, including compliance with digitalization among other enhanced practices.
