Engaging with Ndi Anambra in Europe
5 cities done. 7 more to go.
The first five stops of my 12-city European tour have been nothing short of extraordinary, connecting with our vibrant Anambra and South East communities across Europe.
Our journey began in Paris, France, where I had the honour of being the special guest at our community’s end-of-year cultural celebration. The sight of our people coming together with their families and children filled my heart with joy. My deepest gratitude goes to our exceptional hosts: Nze Austine Okagbue, Ozomma Ugoeju Obosi, Engr Chief Ugochukwu Kenis, and Adaigbo Ezechukwu Uche Sylvia. Special mention to the Okagbue family who graciously welcomed me at the airport and provided transport to my accommodation. I’m also thankful to our leaders from Zurich, Switzerland, who made the journey to join us.
The tour continued to Nürnberg, Germany, where I experienced remarkable hospitality. My heartfelt appreciation goes to Elder Tango Ugochukwu (Ezeonufo the 4th na Oraifite/political observer plus political book marker), Chief Cosy Chukwunonso Ugochukwu (Ebube Ndigbo na Germany), Chief Benjamin Chinaka Agbowodikeizu (Coordinator Ndigbo na Germany), Chief Victor Anyawuike (Akudo na Nurnberg/Ugochinyere na Okwele), Chief Chiagozie Madukaife Ikedike (Akudo na Awka Etiti), Engineer Onyekachukwu (Ochiliozuor Frankfurt) and Benjamin Oyamendan (former Edo State Governorship Aspirant).
In Prague, Czech Republic, the warmth of our community was equally magnificent. Many thanks to our gracious hosts: Mr Ezeugo Nnanyelugo Ebom, Chief Chinyelugo Okah, Mr Richard Obianozie, Chief Chuks Nwamatalu, and John Okaaonwugo. A highlight was my enriching interaction with Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, the Papal Nuncio to Czech Republic—truly one of Nigeria’s finest diplomats.
My fourth stop was Amsterdam where the engagements reached the climax. Our people here were most punctual, orderly and engaging, and the feeling was over the top. I am deeply grateful to Abada Iwuchukwu (Ado of Ado) who literally abandoned his call to bar ceremony in London to rush back to Amsterdam to lead the hosting. Congratulations to him on this amazing milestone. My special appreciation to all of them that showed up, particularly Igwe CIC Nwangwu (Eze Igbo Holland), Chief Stanley Agu (Igbo Union President), Eche Mmadubuko (Igbo Union ex President), Vincent Anene (Ihiala President General), Steve Ajere (Ajere food BV), Prince Galaxy EzeAmama, Donald Okeke (United Nigeria Platform), Dr. F.O Ogbuli, Rev. Fr Patrick Chukwuebuka Ezeonwu cssp, Kenneth Chukwu (DG Obi/Datti People’s Movement), Chief Emeka Nwaigwe, Bernard Chinwara Nkworka and Samuel Okwosa (Sampele)
Next was Vienna, Austria, where our people didn’t disappoint at all, both in attendance and very constructive engagements. Very special thanks to our chief hosts, Mr. Francis Okpata, Mr. Sunny Abacha, Chief Aloysius Igboeri (Onwa) who also is the Chairman of Ndi Anambra in Austria, and Mrs Nnenna Azikiwe-Ibegbu who leads ndi Igbo women in Austria together with her husband Chief Ogbuu Azikiwe. Also, very special thanks to the former Chairman of Ndi Anambra in Austria, Eng Sam Okoli.
Three things made Vienna event exceptional. First is the surprise presence of Hon Victor Afam Ogene, the House member representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency and the caucus leader of all LP House members in the National Assembly together with his friend from the United Nations. I thank these gentlemen for their presence and support.
The second is the presence of 5 reverend fathers who came from different parts of Austria to welcome me. They include Rev Fr Dr Nich Abazie, Frs Sixtus Dilibe, Bartholomew Okeke, Kingsley Efidi and Valentine Ike-Mapel. Again, special appreciation to them for their prayerful support.
The last was the amazing presentation and welcome from the OAU Family meeting n Austria led by Chief Azubuike Ifediora and Chief Michael Umeh.
Throughout these engagements, our people’s concern about homeland security has been a consistent theme. Their enthusiasm and ideas for redeeming our beloved Anambra have been both inspiring and enlightening.
The journey continues as I head to Gothenburg and Malmo (both in Sweden), Copenhagen in Denmark, Athens in Greece, Warsaw in Poland and Manchester and London in the UK. Together, we’re building bridges and strengthening our community bonds across Europe. To God be the Glory 🤝
