…Selected illustrious sons and daughters bag awards at historic anniversary
By Tony Ezike
A globally renowned business leader, astute politician, and compassionate philanthropist, H.E Dr. Ike Oligbo (Ike Umuoji), has donated a total of ₦42 million to support community development and humanitarian causes during his investiture as Ike Umuoji at the grand finale of the 100th anniversary celebration of the Umuoji Improvement Union (UIUN).
The colourful event, held at the Chief Silas Onyima Memorial Stadium, Umuoji, in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, witnessed the gathering of dignitaries, traditional leaders, and indigenes from across the globe.
In his remarks, Dr. Oligbo expressed profound gratitude to the Regent of Umuoji, Chief Dr. Chris Nnaedu (Odezuligbo), the President General of UIUN, Chief Ifeanyichukwu Cyril Muoemenam (Ichie Chinaechendo), the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Barr. Austin Arinze Obiefuna, the Igwe-in-Council, the leadership of the UIUN, and the entire Umuoji community for finding him worthy of the prestigious honour.
Describing the recognition as a call to greater service, he reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the development and welfare of Umuoji people.
Speaking earlier, the President General of UIUN, Chief Ifeanyichukwu Cyril Muoemenam (Ichie Chinaechendo), described the centenary celebration as a historic milestone, highlighting the successful unification of the Umuoji Brothers Association and the Umuoji Progressive Union into a single, formidable body, the Umuoji Improvement Union.
He noted that the union has recorded remarkable achievements over the years, particularly in infrastructure development and member welfare, while urging sustained commitment to ongoing projects. These include the completion of the Umuoji Stadium Complex, the Iba Umuoji Complex, the Women Development Centre, and the Umuoji Country Club, among others.
Dr. Oligbo’s conferment as Ike Umuoji was widely regarded as well-deserved, given his numerous contributions to the community. Notably, he financed the establishment of a Central Monitoring Centre for Umuoji’s security architecture, equipped with modern communication gadgets and surveillance systems. He also supported the installation of a green energy system at the Umuoji Civic Centre, enhancing both security and infrastructure.
Through the Ike Oligbo Foundation, he has awarded scholarships to numerous students and graduates, supported widows and vulnerable families, and sponsored medical outreach programmes; particularly in Uruedeke, bringing essential healthcare services closer to the people.
A breakdown of his donations at the event includes:
₦2 million for the redemption of his chieftaincy certificate
₦20 million to support the activities of the Igwe-in-Council
₦20 million to the Ike Oligbo Foundation for medical assistance to indigent members of the community
The event underscored the enduring spirit of unity, progress, and collective responsibility that has defined Umuoji over the past century.
