In recognition of his numerous humanitarian interventions, community development and contributions to nation-building, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Chief Ukie Ezeali, has been presented with the 2020 Philanthropic Award of Honour by a socio-cultural group, Afikpo Newdawnites.
The award was presented to the commissioner on Sunday during a re-orientation exercise organised by Afikpo Newdawnites in Afikpo.
Speaking at the event, the chairman of the group, Comrade Ewa Austine, said that the interest of the group is in promoting growth, peace and unity in Afikpo North, hence the recognition of Ezeali’s efforts in that direction.
He said: “Afikpo Newdawnites are young species of youths with the mandate of bringing light and restoring sanity among the youths, for the betterment/development of our community, Afikpo. The team has addressed the youths on the need for peace and tranquillity in our community, which promotes development in a city. The youths were advised to channel their strength into something more productive; instead of disrupting the peace we are enjoying in our community with cultism, gangsterism and arson.
“Furthermore, Afikpo Newdawnites during the events, pleaded with some youths not to allow some power mongers to use them against their brothers and friends during the electioneering period for their own selfish interest. Afikpo is our own and we must join hands in making it great again.”
In his acceptance speech, Ezeali, thanked the group for the humble recognition, dedicating the award to Governor David Nweze Umahi.
He said: “My appreciation goes to my boss, His Excellency Chief. Engr. David Nweze Umahi, for giving me the privilege to serve in his government and add to humanity. I am also grateful to Afikpo Newdawnites for the recognition of my efforts in human capacity development.
“You don’t need to make much noise for people to recognise your contributions to development of society as your efforts will always single you out wherever you may be.
“On my part, this 2021 will be better for all of us as I promise to always do my best in adding smiles on the faces of Afikpo people in particular and Ebonyi state in general. As I have been learning under the footsteps of my boss, Governor Umahi, we will continue bringing out the best in Ebonyians and doing our best for the overall development of the state under the APC.”
