Former Senator representing Anambra Central, Senator Uche Lilian Ekwunife jas called on government at all levels to collaborate and fight insecurity.

Senator Ekwunife made the statement i. A press release, marking jer 55th birthday.

Full text of the release is published below.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT
ON THE OCCASION OF MY 55TH BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY
DECEMBER 12, 2025

Today, as I mark my 55th birthday anniversary, I return all glory and gratitude to God Almighty for the priceless gift of life, His sustaining grace, and the rare privilege of service.

Birthdays, accomplishments, and purpose are ultimately defined by God’s perfect will. No human effort can alter His divine plan. This milestone therefore offers me a reflective moment to look back with gratitude, to learn from the journey, and to renew my commitment to contributing meaningfully to the progress and wellbeing of our society.

On this special day, I express my heartfelt appreciation to my beloved husband Larry, my wonderful children, and my entire family, friends, and associates. Your unwavering support, encouragement, and sacrifices have shaped my journey. Your belief in me has made every success possible, and I remain profoundly grateful.

My earnest prayer is for a peaceful, united, and prosperous nation built on love, mutual respect, tolerance, and a shared commitment to the common good.

I firmly believe that every sincere effort made in service to others brings joy to their lives and lasting fulfilment to those who serve. When compassion, integrity, and fairness guide our actions, we strengthen our bonds as a people and lay a solid foundation for sustainable development and harmony.

As we celebrate this Yuletide season, a period of faith, family, and joyful gatherings, I urge all communities and travellers to remain vigilant and to observe essential security and safety precautions. I encourage moderation, caution on our roads, and heightened awareness in our communities.

I also call on our security agencies to intensify surveillance and adopt proactive measures to safeguard lives and property, with particular attention to churches and other places of worship during this season of celebration.

Furthermore, I reiterate the urgent need for stronger collaboration among the Federal Government, the states, and Local Government authorities, as well as improved coordination and intelligence sharing across our security agencies. Such synergy is critical to strengthening our internal security architecture, upholding our collective value for human life, and reinforcing our national credibility before the international community.

I reaffirm my unwavering commitment to advocating for equity, justice, inclusion, and sustainable development at all levels. Service remains my lifelong calling. I will continue to lend my voice, experience, and energy to initiatives that uplift our people, strengthen our institutions, and expand opportunities for current and future generations.

As I celebrate this birthday, I pray for continued divine guidance, good health, wisdom, and strength. I trust God for more fruitful years ahead, dedicated to the service of our beloved country, Nigeria.

Signed:
Senator Uche Ekwunife (Iyom), PhD, CON

…examining the quiet strength of a woman who builds others

By lFEANYI NDUKWE (SAINT), ONITSHA

From the roots of the Nri clan came the birth cry of an Amazon over four decades ago. That marked the beginning of a bearer of light into the community. We are honoured to detail in small quantity of a great Amazon in the person of Iyom Chief Mrs Joy Egolum.

In an age where power often shouts and pride seeks applause, Iyom Chief (Mrs.) Joy O. Egolum stands as a gentle storm. She is calm, firm, and deeply influential. Her story is not one of noise or self-display, but of substance. A woman whose footprints echo through service, family devotion, philanthropy, and an unyielding sense of purpose.

Interestingly she was born with an instinct for leadership and a heart tuned to humanity, Iyom Joy Egolum rose steadily through life’s ladder. She didn’t rise by chance, but by choice, discipline, and grace.

She mastered the delicate balance between ambition and humility, between public service and private integrity.

As the South East Corporate Affairs Manager, NB PLC, her career marked by diligence and distinction, reflects a woman who understands that leadership is not about titles, but about transforming lives and lifting others to their rightful heights.

What defines Iyom Chief (Mrs.) Egolum most profoundly is her philanthropy (quiet, consistent, and far-reaching). Her gestures go beyond charity; they are expressions of empathy. She has supported widows with dignity, empowered women through skill acquisitions, offered scholarships to indigent students, and extended a motherly hand to orphans and the less privileged. For her, giving is not an act of showmanship but a duty born out of compassion. No wonder the Enugu state government through the office of the First Lady gave her recognition awards.

Her philanthropic spirit has become a beacon for many, particularly women who have found in her A ROLE MODEL of what strength in femininity truly means. In a society that often undervalues women’s contributions, Iyom Joy Egolum stands as a testament that being female is not a limitation but a DIVINE CALL TO NURTURE, influence, and lead.

Behind every great achievement of hers lies a foundation built on love and family. Iyom is a devoted wife, mother, and matriarch, she embodies the saying that “charity begins at home.”

Her home radiates the same warmth she extends to her community, a sanctuary of discipline, love, and understanding to her children and those she mentors, she is both a teacher and a friend; to her husband, a true partner and confidant.

Her ability to harmonize family responsibilities with professional excellence is a quiet victory; one that many women admire and draw strength from. In her, we see a reflection of resilience and grace, a woman who bends under pressure but never breaks.

Iyom Joy Odogwu Egolum’s life hasn’t been without trials. Like gold refined in fire, she has faced storms; social expectations, professional challenges, and the unique pressures that come with being a woman in leadership.

Yet, she turned every challenge into a steppingstone. Her story is one of endurance rewarded with purpose. Every setback only refined her wisdom, deepened her empathy, and strengthened her resolve to serve.

From her early days in service where she distinguished herself as a woman of integrity and administrative excellence to her later years of community leadership and philanthropy.

Iyom Egolum’s journey reads like a testament of faith, courage, and vision. She has held positions of trust and honor, always leaving trails of fairness, foresight, and compassion.

Today, her legacy shines brightly especially in the lives she has touched which includes schools in Nri and Enugu states, churches, community associations, and women’s groups all bear testimony to her generosity and moral strength. She is a woman who gives without counting, leads without dominating, and inspires without demanding praise.

Her story challenges every woman and indeed every person to see life not as a competition, but as a calling. To lift others as we climb, to be firm yet kind, and to live in a way that our names become blessings on the lips of others.

Her relationship and love for her father, late High Chief Odogwu remains a resounding drum of moral and spiritual guidance.

Quoting her, “Leadership is not about position. It is about compassion, patience, and vision, “— Iyom Chief (Mrs.) Joy Odogwu Egolum

Today, we celebrate God’s Faithfulness on you, keep shining bright as the stars.

By Ifeanyi Ndukwe (Saint), Owerri

The ancient town of Amiri, Oru East LGA, Imo State, stood still as dignitaries, family members, and well-wishers gathered to bid a heartfelt farewell to one of the region’s most revered elder statesmen, Rt. Hon. Dr. Alphonse Okechukwu Okibedi.

At 88, Sir Okibedi’s earthly journey ended, but his legacy continues to blaze like a torch passed from one generation to the next.

Among the notable figures present to pay tribute was Dr. Ngozika Jude Nwaneri, a respected voice in Nigeria’s diaspora community and a close family ally.

Speaking to the press at the funeral held in Ubahazu, Amiri, Dr. Nwaneri delivered an emotional tribute, painting a vivid picture of a man who lived for others.

“Sir Okibedi and his wife were like parents to me when I lived in the U.S. He was a mentor, a guide, and a pillar of quiet strength,”he said.

According to him, the community and state of lmo has lost a rare gem, ” this is a painful loss of a mentor, teacher , philanthropist and a trailblazer. We will continue to immortalize his legacy of love and compassion, ” he said.

Sir Okibedi until his death was a key figure in reshaping lmo politics. He played vital role in sponsorship and support to many in education, politics and community development. He was once deputy speaker, lmo state House of Assembly during the Second Republic. His role in community development earned him the title, “Ochie Dike 1 of Amiri.”

It was the German philosopher, Albert Schweitzer, who once said, “The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.” That statement has now found fresh expression in the life of United Kingdom–based Nigerian, Dr. Frederick Iloegbune, who has launched the OGEMEK Charity Foundation, an initiative focused on empowering vulnerable groups across Nigeria and beyond.

Speaking at the inauguration in Enugu, Dr. Iloegbune, an indigene of Awka in Anambra State, South East Nigeria, said the idea was borne out of his 2010 research in Lagos on the role of faith-based organisations in supporting vulnerable people.

“International aid will not last forever. Africa is greatly blessed, and we must build Sustainable and workable systems,” he said, adding, “OGEMEK Charity Foundation, anchored on agape empowerment, is about humanitarian service without expecting anything in return.”

Dr. Frederick Iloegbune addressing some volunteers

According to him, the foundation, registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in 2020, has since extended its reach to Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe with programmes covering health, education, skills acquisition, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.

In the health sector, Dr. Iloegbune explained that the foundation runs medical outreaches, supports hospital patients unable to afford their bills, provides free check-ups for the elderly, partners with hospitals for subsidised treatment, and raises awareness on food hygiene and healthy living.

He added that the skills acquisition programme offers beneficiaries training in fashion design, catering, digital businesses, content creation, and IT, with mentorship and start-up support provided to help them begin their own ventures.

Highlighting agricultural empowerment for widows and orphans in rural areas, Dr. Iloegbune said scholarships are reserved for children who have lost both parents, while widows and widowers are supported to care for their children.

He emphasized that the foundation is volunteer-driven, sustained by Camaraderie and community support.
“Real joy comes from giving. Agape empowerment means sharing, even when it leaves you with less,” he noted.

The Vision of this Foundation is not just to give, but to build a future where the empowered become the empowerers, bearing in mind that the Foundation has raised them up to a bright future. This will breed a future where True humanity is defined by selfless service and Love.

Dr. Iloegbune further explained that the foundation operates on the principle of “humanitarian work without borders,” stressing that sincerity, rather than politics or publicity, is its driving force.

“We may not have donors today, but when people see sincerity, they will support. Those we empower today will tomorrow empower others,” he said.

A minister in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Dr. Iloegbune pointed out that his vision is guided by biblical teachings on compassion, charity, and selfless service.

“Our volunteers are motivated not by publicity or profit, but by genuine service to humanity.

ICT Dept

The Foundation will settle hospital bills for vulnerable patients, organise medical outreaches, provide quality drugs, and offer free health checks for the elderly.

We will also deliver palliatives, create awareness on food hygiene, and support widows and orphans.

Orphans who have lost both parents will be awarded scholarships, while widows and widowers will be empowered to support their children.

You don’t need to be Dangote or Bill Gates to help. If you can share half of your meal with your neighbour, that is empowerment,” he said.

This Foundation is a light in the darkness, it broadly explores that when a Godsent chooses to care, entire families and communities can rise.

The inauguration featured departmental presentations and interactive sessions, where stakeholders were urged to partner in building a sustainable model of grassroots empowerment across Africa.

Today, I have the honour to express my profound gratitude and celebrate an elegant, courageous, superman, in the person of Chief Dr. Uche Nworah, a prolific media personality et brand ambassador

As my lecturer and mentor, l have learnt a great lot from your impeccable wisdom, knowledge and journalism skills.

Your demonstration of love and compassion for humanity inspires many especially Ndi Anambra. Alot of moral lessons and your extraordinaire kindness is exemplary. You are such a endearing and lovely person and everyday you represent a beacon of hope and faith of a vibrant and dynamic Nigerian.

Today and everyday we celebrate God’s grace and faithfulness to you

HAPPY PROLIFIC BIRTHDAY TO YOU

One Love,
Saint lFEANYI NDUKWE,
President, Prolific Star Media Group

…Muoghalu, Obiora others prayed for more fruitful years ahead, As PG Lauded Afia-Olu, saying it’s a period of unity in Nnewi.

By Ekelaka Magnus

Afia Olu is a cultural event prevalent in the Eastern region of Nigeria especially Anambra State. The Nnewi, Oraifite and Ichi which made up of the Anaedo clan is an example.
Historically the event is celebrated during the new yam festival in order to bring to the end the farming season. It is a culturally significant and rich in African ideology.

These events showcases a wide range of Africanism, from exotic traditional delicacies to displaying of culturally embedded dances and masquerades. It also offers business opportunities as it garners a host of dignitaries which usually grace the event.

On this forgoing, the people of Uruagu in Nnewi North Local Government Area however has not been Left out as tradition demands that Uruagu Festival should be celebrated in the palace of His Highness Obi Afamefuna Charles Obi, the (Ogidi IV) on August every year.

His royal highness Obi Afamefuna Charles Obi, the (Ogidi IV) who is the traditional custodian of Uruagu community had in the meantime declared the festival open with the cutting of the new yam and breaking of kolanut as well as offering special payers for the people of Uruagu in Nnewi North local government.
Obi Afamefuna who thanked God for keeping the community alive to witness 2025 Afia-Olu Festival and also asked God for his grace to keep them alive to witness the 2026 Afia-Olu, He also prayed for long life and prosperity, unity, love, and understanding among community.

Future more, the President-General of Uruagu community in Nnewi North, Hon Innocent Onyekachukwu Okolie, who is also the Chairman and CEO of Organizer Oil and Gas Limited while fielding questions from journalists, described the Afia-Olu Festival as a period of unity and brotherliness in Nnewi, he noted that Afia-Olu is a period when every citizen of Nnewi harvest their crops especially the yam crop.
In his good will message, Hon Okolie urged those in diaspora to always make out time to come home during Afia-Olu Festival to see and Foster development in the community.

On his part, Chief George Muoghalu, the (Ohamadike of Nnewi) who is the Labour Party Governorship candidate in the forth-coming November 8 gubernatorial election in Anambra State, an indigene of Uruagu, however opined that being part of this year’s Afia-Olu festival is a fulfilment for him, he expressed satisfaction on the plan and conduct of this year’s Afia-Olu New Yam Festival, stating that for him he’s very excited to celebrate the Festival with his local community.

Chief Muoghalu in his message which reads, thus “I am happy seeing everyone celebrating the Afia-Olu festival both the chiefs and elders including the locals, everybody is happy eating and drinking, dancing and we are enjoying ourselves”
The massage further opined that “Afia-Olu culture will not die, we shall keep doing it and we shall also encourage and support our local leaderships, I prayed for Obi Afamefuna and his forebearers on the throne, his leadership will bring lasting peace and prosperity, progress and safety in the entire Uruagu community” the massage accerted.

In the same vein, Chief Sir Chigozie Obianyo Chief Onyerikanne Nnewi, the CEO ZARAGOLD industry Nig limited thanked the youth for thier steadfastness in making this Afia-Olu festival a successful one, he however in the spirit of the season wish the Igwe Nnewi and Obi Afamefuna good life and prosperity.
“I must begin by commending the youth of Uruagu for conducting themselves, your initiative, passion, and respect for our cultural heritage give us hope for a brighter future. You have proven that tradition and modernity can walk hand in hand — and that the legacy of our ancestors is safe in your capable hands.

Our correspondence report that there were heavy presence of masquerades displays, dancing of different and other cultural performances.

By Kennedy Okafor, Enugu

Last Saturday, Anambra-based journalist and media entrepreneur, Saint Ifeanyi Ndukwe, took a bold step into a new chapter of his life, traditionally marrying his radiant bride, Precious Toochi Igwe, last Saturday in a colorful Igbo customary wedding.

The event which held at the bride’s family home in Newenta, Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State attracted family, friends, media colleagues, and dignitaries in a vibrant showcase of unity, tradition, and shared dreams.

The groom, known for his fearless journalism and as the President of Prolific Star Media Group, spoke with conviction about his bride. “I saw in her a visionary, objective, and deeply disciplined woman,” he said, his voice steady with certainty.

“She mirrors the values I live by; purpose, passion, and prayer.”

Saint Ifeanyi also emphasized that his decision to settle down was a product of intentional prayers and discernment. “This was not rushed. I asked God for direction, and He answered with Toochi.”

The bride, Precious Toochi, was a vision of elegance in her regal ishiagu attire, glowing with confidence and grace. Sharing her joy, she expressed deep gratitude: “It’s a dream come true. Despite all the odds, everything aligned perfectly. I am walking into this union with joy, peace, and purpose.”

Eyewitnesses say the event echoed the rich beauty of Igbo heritage while setting a modern tone of class and excellence.

The traditional rites were performed with cultural precision, from the presentation of wine to the groom, to the lively dances, blessings, and symbolic exchange of gifts. The ceremony climaxed in jubilation as Saint Ifeanyi and Precious were officially pronounced husband and wife in line with Igbo custom.

As the sun dipped below the hills of Newenta in Awgu LG of Enugu state, it lit up the smiles of a newly wedded couple whose journey promises to inspire and impact models of marriage.

This union marks not just a personal milestone, but a new era for one of the region’s most vocal media personalities. Saint Ifeanyi has been at the forefront of youth advocacy, creative storytelling, and investigative journalism. With Prolific Star TV, Strek Magazine, and Prolific Star Media under his belt, supporters see this next phase as a “marriage of purpose.”

It is not just about two hearts becoming one. It is a story of vision aligning with virtue.

As expected photos and videos from the event are already making rounds on social media, capturing everything from the stunning décor to heartfelt moments shared by the couple. The ambiance reflected class and cultural excellence, with vibrant traditional music, mouth-watering delicacies, and a strong sense of family dynasty.

#SaintIfeanyi2025
#ProlificStarMedia
#ProlificStarTV
#StrekMagazine
#AprokoRepublic
#IgboTraditionalWedding
#WeddingSeason
#MediaPowerCouple
#LoveAndLegacy
#NigerianLoveStory
#AwguWeddings
#VisionMeetsVirtue

You are a man of indomitable fortitude, a true leader with a heart full of determination, unwavering strength, and the compassion to uplift young leaders.

Your leadership style has inspired me to think and aim for the best. I deeply admire your hard work, resilience, and grace.

On this day of thy natal conception, I join the host of Angels and the inscrutable geometrician of the Cosmic Order to celebrate your new age!

I pray for you today: where others go and fail, you will succeed; where others struggle, you will prosper. Just Like your name “NWANGENE,” you shall flow like the river streams. May the blessings of Jeremiah 17:7–8 rest upon you and your family. Amen.

Above all, may God continually uplift and increase you. Amen.

Enjoy the blessings that come with a new age.

— Gerald Odo

The  C. E. O eem_autos Michael Kerian, recently celebrated with friends on the retirement of this exceptional Nigeria Police Force Officer, DCP Hassan yahaya, whom he sees as a father in various capacity.  Truly as they say, Golden Fish has no hiding place as former prime minister of Britain, Winston Churchill, postulated that the price of greatness is responsibility and that is what Rtd DCP Yahaya depicts.

DCP Y. Hassan is from the middle belt part of the country in Akwunu- Ojoku community Ankpa LGA of Kogi State. As DCP Y. Hassan retired after 32 years of dedicated service, many gathered to pause and reflect on the incredible journey he had in Nigeria Police Force and the lasting impact he left behind.

Hassan has exemplified all these values with genuine dedication in service. From the first day he donned the badge to the final day he served, Officer Hassan was more than just a law enforcement officer; he was a beacon of justice, a symbol of hope, and a pillar of support to the immediate community in Nsukka Area command he served.

As he vowed to protect lifes and property over the years, his tireless efforts have not only kept the streets Of Nsukka Command safer and has impacted alot of changes when it comes to police brutality and intimidation, his humane nature have extensively helped shape the peaceful nature of Nsukka Area Command. What set Officer Hassan exceptional is his zeal and his relentless pursuit of improvement of how police officers should relate with the people for more robust and effective community policing methods. During his years in the police force, he introduced so many innovative programs to build trust between law enforcement and the people they serve, and also championed reforms within the department itself, he was always ahead of the curve. His ability to adapt, learn, and innovate has made an indelible mark in Area Command Nsukka.

He left behind a legacy of progress, one where future generations of officers will benefit from the changes he helped to usher in.

Beyond policing , DCP Hassan has always been a source of inspiration to his colleagues. His leadership, both quiet and steadfast, has earned him respect across ranks. He was never afraid to roll up his sleeves, mentor the new recruits, or offer guidance to the veteran officers. His calm demeanor, sharp decision-making, and sense of fairness have served as a model for all who had the privilege of working alongside with him.

Officer Y. Hassan has shown the entire Area Command Nsukka that true leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about the positive difference you make in the lives of others. But perhaps most significantly, Officer #Hassan greatest legacy lies in the profound impact he had in Nsukka Area Command . He wasn’t just a figure in a uniform; he was a friend, a counselor, and a trusted friends to both the poor and the rich and other countless individuals who have turned to him in times of crisis. His empathy and commitment to justice resonated far beyond the badge. He understood that true protection comes not only from enforcing the law but from understanding people and forging genuine, lasting relationships with them.

As Officer #Hassan embarks on the next chapter of his life, many acknowledged  the monumental contributions he has made. His service has changed lives, inspired colleagues, and enriched the very fabric of Area Command Nsukka.The department and the Nsukka are forever indebted to him for his dedication, passion, and tireless work ethic. Though his official duties may have come to an end, Officer Hassan will always be remembered as a steadfast protector, a champion of justice.

Many well wishers were all emotional and touched which the C. E. O of eem autors  extended his deepest gratitude for his service and his legacy. To him, DCP #Hassan has truly left an indelible mark,  with a resonating example that will continue to inspire all.