The Nkpokote Nsukka Development Forum (NNDF), a socio-cultural organisation committed to the promotion of unity and development of the Nsukka cultural zone, has announced plans to honour the immediate past Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla (Rtd), and many other distinguished sons and daughters of Nsukka Zone in recognition of their outstanding contributions to society.
The honour will take place during the Forum’s 2nd Colloquium and Grand Reception scheduled for January 4, 2026, at the Ekpo Refectorium, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), the event will commence at 11:00 a.m.
Speaking on the forthcoming event, the Public Relations Officer of NNDF, Agu Chineme Enyiduru, said the programme is designed to celebrate excellence, promote unity among the people of Nsukka cultural zone, as well as stimulate conversations around sustainable development.
According to him, "NNDF is a socio-cultural platform established to foster cohesion and collective progress across the Nsukka area."
He noted that the honouring of distinguished personalities aligns with the Forum’s philosophy of encouraging service, leadership, and commitment to community development.
“The event will recognise 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,” Enyiduru said.
He disclosed that the theme of the colloquium is “Nsukka Rising: Honouring Our Best, Building the Future.”
The theme, 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 people rise that they can identify and nurture the best within their environment,” he added.
Among those to be honoured are the former 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.; and Senator Chukwuka Utazi. The late Senator Okey Ezea is also listed for posthumous recognition.
Other awardees include, Chief Samuel Maduka Onyishi, Chief William Agbo, Jimoh Rauf Gbadamosi, Chief Festus Oshaba, His Lordship, Most Rev. Prof. Godfrey Igwebuike Ona, Catholic Bishop of Nsukka, Rt. Rev. Aloysius E. Agbo, Anglican Bishop of Nsukka, Imam Prof. Iliaysu Usman Ona, Resident Imam, Central Mosque, Abuja, Professor Simon Ortuanya, Professor Hillary Odo Edoga, Prof. Cyprian Onyeji, HRH Igwe Samuel Asadu (Igwe Ogadagidi), Chief Mrs. Grace Obayi, Chief Mrs. Sally Adukwu-Bolujoko, Major General Godwin Ugwuoke (Rtd), Major General Chris Eze (Rtd), Major General Victor Ezugwu (Rtd), Brigadier General J.O.J. Okoloagu (Rtd), Prof Osita Ogbu, Hon Eugene Odo.
Enyiduru emphasised that recognition occupies a central place in NNDF’s philosophy. Quoting an Igbo proverb, he said, “Eto dike na nke o mere, ike adi ya ime ọzọ,” meaning that honouring achievement motivates individuals to do even more.
He added that NNDF remains committed to continually identifying and celebrating outstanding Nsukka sons and daughters as a means of inspiring service, excellence, and development.
Stakeholders, community leaders and members of the public have been invited to the event.
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