By Douglas Princemola
The Executive Chairman of Isiala Mbano Local Government Area, Evang. Chika Okoroike, has dedicated his Best Chairman of the Year 2025 award to the councillors of the local government, describing them as reliable partners whose support and commitment have contributed significantly to the achievements of his administration.
Okoroike received the award during the grand celebration marking the sixth anniversary of The Onion Newspaper and the unveiling of the Lolo Chioma Bright Njoku Charity Foundation at Rockview Hotel, Owerri. The event brought together government officials, traditional rulers, media practitioners, business leaders and other distinguished guests to celebrate excellence in leadership, journalism and humanitarian service.
Speaking after receiving the honour, the council chairman expressed gratitude to the management of The Onion Newspaper for recognising his contributions to grassroots governance. He described the award as a motivation to remain committed to effective leadership, improved service delivery and the continued development of Isiala Mbano Local Government Area.
He said the recognition was not for him alone but for everyone who has contributed to the success of his administration, particularly the councillors, whom he praised for their cooperation, dedication and unwavering support.
The sixth anniversary celebration of The Onion Newspaper served as an opportunity to reflect on the publication’s journey over the past six years. Guests commended the newspaper for its resilience, professionalism and commitment to ethical journalism despite the challenges facing Nigeria’s media industry.
A major highlight of the occasion was the official unveiling of the Lolo Chioma Bright Njoku Charity Foundation, established to preserve the legacy of the late Founder and Publisher of The Onion Newspaper, Mrs. Chioma Njoku. The foundation is expected to promote humanitarian services and provide support to vulnerable members of society through community-based interventions.
Representing the chairman of the occasion, Barr. Ifeanyi Agwu, PhD, applauded journalists in Imo State for their professionalism and encouraged continued support for media organisations that promote responsible journalism and societal development.
In his remarks, the Editor of The Onion Newspaper, Hon. Dr. Basil Ekweke, thanked supporters, partners and readers for standing by the newspaper throughout its six-year journey. He reaffirmed the newspaper’s commitment to balanced, credible and people-oriented journalism.
Also speaking, the Publisher of Nigerian Horn Newspaper, Chief Bright Chimezie Njoku, appreciated everyone who has continued to support the vision and legacy of his late wife, pledging to sustain her ideals through journalism and humanitarian service.
The celebration ended with goodwill messages, award presentations and renewed calls for excellence in public service, responsible journalism and humanitarian engagement, as guests congratulated The Onion Newspaper on its successful six-year milestone and wished the publication greater accomplishments in the years ahead.
