Nkechinyere Ewa-okpara
10th January 2025 was a red letter day at Ezeakataka, Enyima Agbaja community in Izzi local government area of Ebonyi State, as they honoured the immediate past Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ebonyi council, Comrade Tony Nwizi with a Chieftaincy title.
Nwizi who is the Director General of the state broadcasting corporation, EBBC.
Was conferred with the title “Idenyi-Ọha Dọberụ l’ Ezeakataka.
His wife, Joy Nwizi was conferred with ome-ogo nwanyi by the community.
The community also conferred the chieftaincy title of Enyi Oha(friend of all) on the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Francis Nwifuru, Office of the Governor, Uchenna Nwamkpuma.
The event, which took place on Friday, attracted people from all walks of life.
Friends of Tony from London, Germany, and other foreign countries also attended the ceremony.
Paul Uguru, Chairman of the planning committee of the event, described Nwizi as a true son of his father, who was known in the community as a detribalized heart and selfless service to all.
“Just as his father was a bridge between clans and kindreds, Tony Nwizi has continued that legacy with grace and humility.
” He has not discriminated against anyone based on their background, clan, or kindred.
“Instead, he has always carried every villager along, ensuring that no one is left behind. It is this spirit of inclusivity, unity, and equality that has kept us all together, working as one towards a brighter future.
“It is for this reason, and many others, that we are gathered here today, in one voice, to unanimously receive him as our illustrious son.
“His tireless efforts in attracting so many water boreholes to our village have brought an abundance of clean, safe water to our people, improving our health and livelihood and making our village a better place for all.
“Beyond the provision of water, he has instilled in us the values of togetherness and peace. His leadership has unified us, strengthened our community, and inspired us to reach for greater heights”, he said.
Governor Francis Nwifuru, represented by Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Moses Odunwa commended the community for honouring the media guru.
He assured that he will continue to provide social amenities for the people and urged them to continue to support his administration.
Nwifuru urged Nwizi not to relenting in doing those this that earned him honour by the community.
Lebechi Mbam Commissioner for Works, who was Chairman of the event, his Commerce, Industry and Business Development counterpart, Oguzor Offia-Nwali, a Catholic Priest, Dr. Felix Uche-Akam and other personalities, lauded the civic reception accorded Nwizi who was also Secretary of NUJ in the state.
Nwizi, in his speech, said he was humbled and incredibly grateful for the honour done to him and commended his friends, associates, relatives, well-wishers and the people for their presence during the event which he said touched his heart in ways words can scarcely express.
He noted that the honor means so much to him and that it will spur him to do more for the community and humanity.
“For my dear village people, I am deeply honored and grateful for the wonderful reception. I am also profoundly humbled by the Chieftaincy title you have bestowed upon me.
“This recognition means so much to me, and I will strive to live up to the trust and responsibility it carries.
“Once again, thank you all for making this day unforgettable. Your kindness and encouragement continue to inspire me”, he said.