The Anioma community in Abuja has passed a vote of confidence in Senator Ned Munir Nwoko of Delta North senatorial district, during an interactive session with the lawmaker. The event, held on Saturday, June 15, at A-Class Park and Recreation Centre in Maitama, Abuja, attracted over a thousand Anioma sons and daughters, including both active and retired public and civil servants, as well as Anioma President Generals based in Abuja.
Senator Nwoko initiated the event to recognize his constituents in Abuja, build relationships, and seek their input to better address their needs and concerns. In his address, the lawmaker expressed gratitude for the people’s support and highlighted that their presence signifies a positive step towards realizing his vision for the people of Anioma. He emphasized that the interactive session aimed to achieve two main goals. First, it sought to unite all Anioma people in Abuja and its environs under one umbrella and inform them about his duties in the Senate and his responsibilities to them as their Senator. Second, it aimed to encourage them to share information about budget placements, capacity-building initiatives, job opportunities, training programs, and career development within their agencies and ministries so that he could facilitate access to these opportunities for Anioma constituents.
“You must know what we are doing in the National Assembly. The National Assembly is here to serve you. You need to understand my duties and the services I owe you. Whether it’s unjust job termination, health issues, or community matters, you have someone in the Federal Government to attend to your needs and concerns,” stated Senator Nwoko.
“How do you gain access to me or my office if you don’t know my willingness to serve you? I didn’t come to NASS just to hold the title of Senator; I know my duties and I am committed to them. Many of you hold key positions in various government agencies and ministries, and I seek your advice and partnership to serve our people effectively.”
On the creation of Anioma state, Senator Nwoko stressed the importance of the state’s creation over regional classifications. “Whether Anioma is South-South or South-East should not be the focus. What’s most important to discuss is that Anioma is poised to become a highly significant and viable state. We already have six out of nine local government areas producing oil and gas. In addition, Anioma boasts numerous talented and important individuals. Despite current challenges, Emefiele will continue to be a prominent figure in Anioma. We also have people like Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, and other notable personalities. We have all the talents we need to excel in all areas, be it sports or academics.”
Referencing historical resilience, he said, “The Ekwumekwu war exemplifies the strength and resilience of the Aniomas. Historically, we fought the Europeans to preserve our identity and autonomy. We are continuing the legacy of our forefathers, and I assure you that I am dedicated to this cause.”
During the Q&A session, the senator addressed his legislative activities, focusing on bills and motions that directly impact the immediate needs of his constituents. His responses were carefully tailored to the specific questions raised.
Earlier, Chief Godfrey Odogwu, the President General of the Asaba Development Union, Abuja branch, emphasized during an interview that the creation of Anioma state is long overdue. He underscored that this is a matter of great importance for every son and daughter of Anioma. Chief Odogwu also highlighted that the debate over whether Anioma state will be classified as a South-South or South-East state should not be the primary focus. Instead, he emphasized that the paramount goal should be the actualization of Anioma state itself.
Patrick Obi, Branch President of Ogwashi-Uku Development Association, leading the vote of confidence, stated, “We have been assured that we have a Senator. Doors have never been this open for us.”
Notable Anioma dignitaries at the event included Dr. Anthony Achuzia, Deputy Comptroller General, Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Services; Onwubuya Henry Ngozika, Director, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs; Mrs. Meg Okpala, Assistant Controller General, Special Services; Chief Anthony Molokwu, Ogwulujame of Asaba; Chief Mrs. Bridget Molokwu, Deputy Director, Federal Ministry of Finance; Beatrice Eboka, Comptroller General,
Nigeria Customs Service; and Mrs. Felicia Uzuakpundu, retired Director, Power Training Institute of Nigeria, among others.
