As Nigeria continues to grapple with inflation and other economic challenges, Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah has called on indigenes of Anambra State residing in the United States to intensify their investments in their home state. Speaking at the 2024 Anambra Day event in New York, Ubah reassured them that the current insecurity situation would soon be a thing of the past.
The event, organized by the Anambra State Organization and held at the Marriott Hotel, featured notable dignitaries such as Ossy Okeke, chairman of the Anambra State Organization, Nze Malachy Okoro, Chief Ifeanyi Anyene, and Dr. Mrs. Josephine Aguoji.
During the program, Anambrarians living in the city pledged their commitment to support the economic development of Anambra State and to attract substantial Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) to their state. The Senate Committee Chairman on Petroleum (Downstream), who attended the occasion, called for a minute of silence to honor vigilante personnel and those recently killed by gunmen in Nnewi and Nnobi.
In a show of support, Ubah donated N15 million for the building of Obi Anambra in New York and an additional N5 million to support the Anambra State Association (ASA) Women wing, totaling N20 million.
The event brought together Anambrarians residing in the city to celebrate their rich culture and heritage. Speaking at the event, Sen. Ubah emphasized the importance of unity and communal love among Anambrarians both in New York and back home in Anambra State, Nigeria. He highlighted initiatives like the ‘Secure South Project,’ which is designed to strengthen security and create a conducive atmosphere for businesses to thrive in his Senatorial District.
“Let me wholeheartedly commend your efforts to acquire a property to serve as ‘Obi Anambra,’ promoting Anambra culture and heritage in New York,” Ubah said. “Your organization has provided a platform for ndị Anambra to come together and celebrate their roots, and I urge everyone to support the organization and participate in their future events and initiatives.”
He also praised New York City as home to several international organizations, noting it is fitting for Ndi Anambra to have a secretariat serving as a rallying point for their community in the city.
President of the Organization, Hon. Ossy Okeke, expressed gratitude to the Senator for his exemplary leadership and optimism about Ubah’s capacity to improve the socio-economic welfare of all Anambrarians if given the opportunity. Okeke conveyed the resolve of the diasporans to increase their investments in Anambra, encouraged by Ubah’s plans to develop the state. He also revealed plans for the organization to commence philanthropic programs in Anambra and Nigeria at large.
“We see your good works in your Senatorial Districts, and we are indeed pleased and proud of you,” Okeke remarked. “We pray that God will continue to strengthen you. On our part, we will continue to invest in Anambra because it is our home.”
Sen. Ubah recalled with nostalgia how he donated $10,000 several years ago to support the building of Anambra House in Boston, which today provides essential services and serves as a rallying point for Ndi Anambra in Boston.
The event was reported to be a resounding success, featuring traditional music, dance, and food varieties that showcased the rich cultural heritage of Anambra State.
