Anambra State Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Hon. Anthony Collins Nwabunewanne, has dedicated an award for outstanding service to humanity and society conferred on him by Obev Industries Ltd, Port Harcourt, (the publishers of Freenews Magazine), to the State Governor, Charles Soludo.
The Commissioner while receiving the award at his office, Government house Awka, on Friday, described governor Soludo as one who has done a lot in less than two years to improve the welfare of the poor especially, in the rural areas.
According to him, “I dedicate this award (service to humanity and society) first, to His Excellency, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo for his doggedness in fighting to get what belongs to the masses and improve our society and democracy” This award had spur me to do more to ensure that every community in the state benefit from the dividends of democracy.
The Commissioner stressed that the first line of charge for the present administration is respect for the rule of law which is being greatly replicated by the ministry in Anambra communities.
“Under Governor Soludo’s mandate, we are able to match out his vision and mission within this short period in office. It is an incredible privilege to be recognized for our dedication to promoting and upholding the principles of democracy in Anambra Communities.
“As a strong apostle of Prof. Soludo, I dedicate this award to the governor and to the people of Anambra State.
“Democracy is not just a political system, it is a way of life. It is about ensuring that every individual has the right to participate in society and have a say in their own governance. It is about the freedom to express oneself and the right to be heard.
“As Ambassadors of Democracy in this administration, we always strive to promote and uphold these principles in our personal and professional lives. We have worked tirelessly to empower people to participate in the democratic process, to ensure that their voices are heard and their opinions are represented”, the Commissioner stated.
The Commissioner observed that it is not always an easy journey, but that the award signifies that their efforts have not gone unnoticed.
“It is a reminder that we must continue to fight for democracy, to stand up for what we believe in and to never lose sight of the importance of freedom and equality.
“Notwithstanding, the fact that a lot has been done, this recognition will spur us to do more”, the Commissioner noted.
While expressing gratitude to God that the world is beginning to recognize the concerted efforts of the Governor through the Ministry, Commissioner Nwabunwanne pointed out that the award is not just a recognition of their efforts, but is also a testament to the importance of democracy in the nascent world.
He thanked the Governor and the people of the state for the opportunity to share his passion and commitment to democracy with others and expressed optimism that the synergy with the people will continue towards a more inclusive and democratic world.
The Chairman, Editorial Board of Freenews Magazine, Mr. Obinna Mbonu, while presenting the award, said that the award is in recognition of the Governor’s efforts to enthrone peace and development in Anambra State.
According to Mbonu, “We are motivated by the peaceful town union elections conducted in about forty towns where we keenly followed. We know that the idea is to eliminate the past record of dictatorship through caretaker committees which has actually been dismantled”.
The Board Chairman, added that to a great extent, the Company discovered that the governor has achieved a lot, with the help of his lieutenants, particularly the Commissioner for local government.
“Ever since the governor appointed transition committee chairmen, there has been effective synergy existing between the ministry in charge and the chairmen. We commend the existing unity in terms of driving the vision of the Governor.
“It has to do with character, confidence and commitment to ensure that the mission and vision of the Governor is implemented in the 179 communities in the state”, Mr. Mbonu concluded.
President General of Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), Barr. Titus Akpudo was also present during the award ceremony.
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