On Saturday, August 10, 2024, the good people of Ogugu Ntu-egbenese Ancient Kingdom in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State celebrated a festival of joy and gratitude as their newly reconstructed, rehabilitated, and furnished Central School was officially commissioned by the Honorable Commissioner for Education in Enugu State, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah.
Built over ninety years ago, the school was the only government primary institution attended by nearly all the villages in the region, except for Ibite. It also served as a worship center for the Catholic Church and had long been in need of attention until Gidim Ejike Okonkwo and his wife, Mrs. Chika Okonkwo (née Chukwurah), stepped in to make a difference.
The event attracted political, traditional, and social leaders and generated buzz in the community for weeks, signaling a brighter future for the region.
After unveiling the newly refurbished school, the Honorable Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ndubueze Mbah, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Enugu State Ministry of Education, Chief Patrick Ochi, praised the Okonkwo family for their commendable generosity towards their community.
“This initiative exemplifies the transformative power of collaboration between the government and private citizens. It aligns with Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s administration, which emphasizes teamwork in advancing educational development,” Chief Ochi stated. He also highlighted that the governor’s education policy addresses all levels, ensuring thorough growth across the sector.
Chief Ochi further remarked, “The Okonkwo family has set a standard for others to emulate, and we hope to see more contributions like this from individuals and organizations throughout Enugu State. Education is a collective responsibility.”
Deacon Okey Ogbodo, the Honorable Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Matters, commended Gidim Ejike Okonkwo and his family for honoring their roots through community development. “This is how one builds a lasting legacy—for future generations. I encourage other well-intentioned individuals to follow the Okonkwo family’s exemplary model of philanthropy,” he urged.
In her speech, Mrs. Chika Okonkwo, originally from Ibite Village but married to Ugwuoma, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to God for the opportunity to work with her husband on such an impactful project for their community. “It has always been my aspiration to give back to society, and doing so at this critical moment in our land’s history fills my family with profound fulfillment,” she remarked, her emotions evident.
She emphasized the importance of collective efforts in development, stating, “This project would not have been possible without the support and unity of our people. I also want to recognize the leadership of our community, especially the Igwe-elect, Chief Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr, for his unwavering commitment to progress.”
Mrs. Okonkwo also acknowledged Chief Ogbonna Jnr’s role, saying, “His leadership has inspired hope among us. His continued support and insightful approach to community development embody the unity we need to propel our community forward.” She expressed optimism that the community’s renewed sense of purpose would lead to further initiatives like this.
Chief Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr, the Igwe-elect of Ogugu Ntu-egbenese Ancient Kingdom, commended the Okonkwo family’s vision for development. “For the first time in decades, we are inaugurating two separate projects within just one week. This clearly demonstrates the strength of unity and collaboration among our community leaders,” he declared.
He continued, “What we are witnessing today is not merely the opening of a school; it signifies the dawn of a new era for our community. This accomplishment calls for continued cooperation as we work together to undertake more sustainable projects in the future.”
Chief Ogbonna Jnr reminded the community that their future hinges on their solidarity, stating, “We have set the tone with this event, and with ongoing collaboration, there are no limits to what we can achieve.”
Mrs. Chika Okonkwo, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) based in Baltimore, Maryland, has made significant contributions to the healthcare sector. Specializing in mental health, she manages conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and more. Her practice at MedStar Health in Baltimore also offers support through psychopharmacology, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychotherapy.
However, the Okonkwo and Nweke families’ contributions to their community are not just a symbol of their generosity but also a call to action for all well-to-do members of society to uplift their hometowns, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come.
