Says It’s a Sign of a New Beginning for the Community
In what many are already calling a turning point for grassroots development and youth inclusion in Akwukwu-Igbo, Hon. (Dr.) Kenneth Gbandi, former Senatorial candidate and respected diaspora leader, has commended the Akwukwu-Igbo Student Association (ASA) under the leadership of Comerad Stanley Ogbolu for organizing a landmark 2025 Children’s Day celebration.
Delivering his opening remarks through his Chief of Staff, Gbandi4Nigeria Organization, Ms. Ugochukwu Chinenye, at the colorful event in the heart of Akwukwu-Igbo, Gbandi expressed heartfelt appreciation for the initiative, describing it as “a sign of a new beginning” for the historically rich but often fragmented town.
Gbandi extended warm greetings to all dignitaries, parents, students, and guests in attendance. He especially recognized the event’s Father and Mother of the Day, the revered environmentalist Chief Newton Jibunoh and HRM Queen Anthonia Obi Azuka, commending their dedication to community-building. He also saluted prominent guests: Chief Barr. Gift Iwegbu, Hon. Amb. Uju Okolo, Hon. Ufo Cyril Afagwu, and Comr. Kelvin Anyakwu, whose participation added further weight to the occasion.
Hon. Gbandi’s message underscored the essence of Children’s Day, a moment to reflect on the responsibility of communities to protect, nurture, and empower the younger generation. “Children are not just our hope for tomorrow; they are the pulse of our community today,” he declared. “With such promising young minds gathered here, the future of Akwukwu-Igbo shines bright. We owe them a community defined by peace, unity, and a mindset focused on development.”
The Student Association was roundly praised for going beyond its academic identity to become a unifying and transformative force in the town. “ASA has proven that our young people are not just leaders of tomorrow, they are already leading today,” Gbandi said. “By taking ownership of this celebration, ASA has redefined civic responsibility for the next generation.”
He urged the Association to continue spearheading initiatives that foster education, civic values, and cultural pride, noting that such efforts are the bedrock of sustainable progress.
Referencing ASA’s inspiring motto – “Unity and Knowledge, Key to a Better Future” -Gbandi described it as a call to action rather than a mere slogan. “Education is the most powerful tool we have to unlock Akwukwu-Igbo’s full potential,” he noted. “The Akwukwu Economic Development Blueprint already places a strong emphasis on investing in education, mentorship, and ICT. ASA will be a key partner in this transformative journey.”
In a rousing call to action, Gbandi urged parents, traditional leaders, and government stakeholders to prioritize child- and youth-centered policies. He appealed for greater collaboration between local actors and diaspora professionals to unlock global opportunities for the town’s young people. “Together, we can create a model community where no child is left behind and where every dream has a chance to grow,” he affirmed.
Scholarship Boost and a Hopeful Future: To cap off his remarks, Gbandi announced a scholarship grant for 20 pupils of Akwukwu-Igbo schools, to be administered at the discretion of the ASA organizers. The scholarships, he revealed, are being awarded through the Gbandi Education Foundation (GCE-Victoria), a memorial initiative in honor of his late parents, both lifelong advocates of personal educational development.
He concluded with a heartfelt charge to the children present: “Dream big, work hard, and never lose faith in yourselves. This is your time and your community stands with you.” With joyful songs, cultural displays, and renewed community spirit, the 2025 Children’s Day Celebration in Akwukwu-Igbo wasn’t just a festivity, it was a bold statement of unity, purpose, and a shared future.
African Heritage Magazine Editorial Desk
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