—— Expresses deep gratitude to the community for the honour bestowed on him, and promises to continue his service to humanity.
The Director, Projects, of the Southeast Development Commission ( SEDC), and, former Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu, has been honoured with a chieftaincy title, Ide Ji Ogu na Umuavulu-Abor, during the inaugural Ujaligwa Enye Oha (Ofala) of His Royal Majesty, Igwe Ozo Chike Paschal Onodugo, PhD, FCTI, Ujaligwa III of Umuavulu-Abor, in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The colourful traditional ceremony, which took place on 26th December, 2025, attracted a large gathering of traditional rulers, political leaders, professionals and community stakeholders from within and outside Enugu State.
Speaking at the event, Igwe Onodugo praised the awardees for their outstanding roles and contributions to the development of Umuavulu-Abor community and Enugu State at large, noting that the honours were well deserved in recognition of their service, commitment and goodwill to the people.
In his acceptance speech, Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu expressed deep gratitude to the Umuavulu-Abor kingdom for the honour bestowed on him.
He described the community as an integral part of his life, stating that his roots, marriage sponsors and several partners in past and ongoing projects are from Umuavulu-Abor.
“My roots are from Umuavulu-Abor. Both my sponsors in marriage and in other projects are from here. I am truly grateful, and as whom much is given, much is expected. We will continue to do our best,” he said.
Rt. Hon. Okechukwu also commended the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his leadership style, especially in the area of security and economic development.
According to him, the governor’s efforts have ensured a safer Enugu State and improved the overall economic outlook of the state.
Other personalities honoured with chieftaincy titles at the event include Kenneth Okechukwu Agu and Chief Ralph Ikechukwu Ugwu.
The occasion was further enlivened by a generous donation of ₦5 million by High Chief Dr. Chijioke Nneji in celebration of the historic Ofala festival.
The inaugural Ofala also attracted prominent dignitaries, including Prof. Val Ugwu and Dr. Mrs. Val Ugwu, alongside many other guests who turned out in large numbers to celebrate the monarch and the awardees.
The event marked a significant cultural milestone for the Umuavulu-Abor kingdom, reaffirming its rich traditions and unity under the reign of HRM Igwe Ozo Chike Paschal Onodugo, Ujaligwa III.