A socio-cultural organisation committed to the promotion of unity and development in the Nsukka cultural zone of Enugu State known as Nkpokote Nsukka Development Forum (NNDF has disclosed plan to honour former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla (Rtd) and other distinguished sons and daughters of Nsukka land for their outstanding contributions.
.
This award ceremony is expected to take place during the Forum’s 2nd Colloquium and Grand Reception on January 4, 2026, by 11.00 am at the Margret Ekpo Hall, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
.
Speaking on the forthcoming event, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of NNDF, Agu Chineme Enyiduru, said the programme was designed to celebrate excellence, promote unity among the people of Nsukka cultural zone.
.
According to him, “NNDF is a socio-cultural platform established in the cultural zone to foster cohesion and collective progress across the zone.
.
Enyiduru noted that the honouring of distinguished personalities aligns with the forum’s philosophy of encouraging service, leadership, and commitment on community development.
.
“The event will recognise 25 eminent individuals who have distinguished themselves in public service, governance, academia, religion, the military, and other spheres of national life, while maintaining strong ties to Nsukka land,” he said.
.
He disclosed that the theme of the colloquium is “Nsukka Rising: Honouring Our Best, Building the Future.”
.
The theme of the colloquium
he explained, reflects the belief that sustainable progress begins with a conscious resolve to rise, celebrate excellence, and deliberately plan for the future.
.
“For Nsukka to have a bright future, we must think in terms of rising. It is when a people rise that they can identify and nurture the best within their environment,” he added.
.
According to the PRO, some of the personalities to be honoured include; Ex- Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla (Rtd), the immediate past governor of Enugu State His Excellency Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Lawrence Ugwuanyi; former Governor of Enugu State and former National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Okwesilieze Nwodo; former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief John Nwodo Jnr, late Senator Chukwuka Utazi. the late Senator Okey Ezea who will be given posthumous recognition.
Others are, Evangelist Samuel Maduka Onyishi, High Chief William Agbo, Jimoh Rauf Gbadamosi, Chief Festus Oshaba, His Lordship, Most Rev. Prof. Godfrey Igwebuike Onah Bishop of Nsukka Catholic Diocese and Rt. Rev. Aloysius .Agbo, the Nsukka Angelican Bishop, among others
.
Enyiduru emphasised that recognition occupies a central place in NNDF’s philosophy. Quoting an Igbo proverb which said, “Eto dike na nke o mere, ike adi ya ime ọzọ,”( meaning that, recognising and honouring achievements motivate individuals to even do more).
.
“NNDF remains committed to continually identifying and celebrating outstanding Nsukka sons and daughters as a means of inspiring service, excellence, and development.
.
” The forum invites stakeholders, community leaders and entire residents of Nsukka cultural zone and the general public to join in giving honour to whom honour is due,” PRO added