Introduction:
_Agbaghara Nsu in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State will on 28th, Dec 2024, mark its annual Agbaghara Day Celebration.
This year’s event will happen with a bang given the calibre of persons working round the clock to make the event a success.
Among the notable personalities are the President-General of Agbaghara Town Union (ATU), Chief Ugochukwu Osueke, The Chairman, Planing Committee, Prince Chikodi Igwe, the Chairman of Project Implementation Committee, High Chief Zali and Secretary of the Project and Planing Committee, Prof Obinna Okoro.
In a recent joint press interview, these individuals threw more light on expectations and intentions for making this year’s event a big one. Read on_
Press: Sir, you are the chairman of the planning committee for the great event of Agbaghara Day celebration, I understand that this year’s event will come with a bang, what programs are on the stable
Prince Chikodi Ugwe: Yes I am the chairman* planning committee of the 2024 Agbaghara day celebration and also a prominent member of the Agbaghara project implementation committee and Agbaghara project financiers committee.
This year’s Agbaghara day celebration will be very elaborate and unique in that we will be showcasing several projects initiated and being executed by the community such as the on going road construction and the inauguration of our community security network ( Aladinma security). The occasion will also see the recognition of our son, Rt. Hon Ifeanyi Onyekachi, the leader of the Ehime Mbano Legislative Council who was also CPS to the immediate past Imo state House of Assembly speaker.
Press: _Your community seemed to be very enlightened and educated community with many exposed persons, how have you been able to manage this diversity to advantage ?
Prince Chikodi Igwe: Managing the diversity within a community can be a rewarding challenge, especially when navigating the perspectives of educated and exposed individuals. Our community has been able to turn our diversity into an advantage by, fostering understanding, reducing misunderstandings, creating a sense of belonging and collaboration through open discussions that allow community members to share their views without fear or favour. Also establishing and pursuing common goals have helped to promote unity despite diverse perspectives. Providing opportunities for education, example is our AYET program, a program design to empower the youths of our community, it enhances empathy and appreciation among community members. Recognizing, celebrating the unique contributions of individuals and setting up structured ways to address disagreements have helped to maintain harmony. All these strategies and others not mentioned because of space and time constraints have effectively turned our diversity into a source of strength and creativity.
High Chief Zali, Chairman, Agbaghara Project Implementation Committee
Press: You galvanized the entire community to voluntarily donate fund for the development project such as road rehabilitation exercise, what gave you the audacity to go ahead in mobilizing fund despite the harsh economic condition, how did it start?
High Chief Zali : This question is indeed a deep one and at the same time multi facet in the sense that the answer could come from any dimension.
But let me start by saying that this whole exercise was orchestrated by God Almighty and it is divine.
It all started when our brother his Honor Justice Mike Onyeka posted a write up in Agbaghara general Whatsapp group about how a neighboring villages took it upon themselves to do their own roads, the write up caught my eyes and I decided to write immediately calling on our Royal Father Eze Herbert Anyanwu (Ihie 1 of ihitte Nsu and Our PG Chief Ugochukwu Osueke to give us a blue print on what needs to be done. I went as far as bragging on the platform that I can call 20 Agbaghara Nsu sons and they will give me 1m each and we can start something.
I quickly formed a WhatsApp group and started a wider consultations. I called and added people on the group that I created which in turn has yielded a big result for ndi agbaghara today!
Press: What lessons do you think other communities should learn from this lofty stride you took?
High Chef Zali ; The lessons to be learnt by the other communities are quite enormous because the said projects which we have embarked upon are indeed huge ranging from road projects, health care center and pipe borne water. They should to work jointly . Together alot could be achieved
The President-General (Chief Ugochukwu Osueke)
Press: Your tenure as the PG Agbaghara Community has witness tremendous achievement, what is the secret?
Chief Ugochukwu Osueke The secret is collective responsibility. I do not act without getting input from our people. Two heads , the say, are better than one. I am bold to say that my tenure which will end by Easter, has recorded many positive record. Chairman of the planing committee has mentioned some of them. It has never happened in Agbaghara community that our sons and daughters in Nigeria and diaspora will pull funds together to train our youths in various fields. In all of these, I thank them.
Press: what will you like to be remembered for since you said your tenure will soon come to an end?
Chief Ugochuchu Osueke The history is all ready written. What I will be remembered for steers everybody in the face. But beyond all, I like to be remembered as the PG of Agbaghara who came and made impact.
Sec of Project Committee- Prof Obinna Okoro
Press: How do you still make out time despite your tight schedule to manage the secretariat of the Project implementation Committee?
Prof Okoro :Thank you very much for the question. For me, it’s all about effective time management and prioritization. As a Professor and sitting Head of Department in FUTO, I’ve learned to juggle multiple responsibilities. Taking on the secretariat role for the Project Implementation Committee was a commitment I couldn’t refuse because it is a chance to contribute towards the betterment of my community through Community Service.I have learned that passion fuels persistence. The satisfaction of seeing a project come to fruition, knowing that I played a part, makes it all worthwhile. I want to thank the Town Union Executive for finding me worthy to serve in this capacity. It is a journey in progress and we shall surely reach there and succeed.
Press:
Are there other things you would like the public to know about your great Community Agbaghara?
Prof Okoro: Agbaghara Nsu is more than just a community; it’s a vibrant embodiment of culture, tradition, and resilience. Culture such as Mbomuzo (rural road maintenance festival) is an example, where everyone comes out with great pleasure to participate in. Currently we are using modern methods in fixing our roads which can be likened to a modern day Mbomuzo. We are a community that values education, hard work, and unity. We are proud of our rich history and the contributions our people have made to society. We are known for our natural talents in making iron implements as well as traditional and local crafts.While we face our challenges like any other community, we are determined to overcome them. The community is investing in youth development, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering social cohesion, as evidenced in the Agbaghara Youth Empowerment Programme of the current Town Union Executive. But what truly sets Agbaghara apart is the heart of its people. We are a community that cares deeply about each other and works together to create a better future. Whether it’s through community development projects, educational initiatives, or simply lending a helping hand to a neighbor, we strive to make a positive impact.
