An elder statesman, Chief Chukwudi Opara, Udorchimara 1 of Emii Ancient Kingdom,has lauded the National President, Hope Rising For Imolites, Chief (Amb) (Barr) Success Akagburuonye, the Akaraugo of Mbaise and Omuma, for his outstanding contributions to philanthropy, particularly in the areas of healthcare, education, and community development in Imo State.
Speaking to INNONEWS in Owerri, Chief Opara highlighted Akagburuonye’s remarkable initiative of providing free medical care to women in Aboh Mbaise local government area, a programme, he stated, has had a profound impact on the health and well-being of countless families in the area.
He also commended Akagburuonye for empowering and doling out palliatives to more than 4,500 men and women in Aboh Mbaise, with a firm promise to replicate same in the remaining 26 local governments in the State.
“This initiative has not only saved lives, it also impacted positively on the health and welfare of the people in these local governments” he said.
“The free medical care initiative offered essential services, including maternal health support, screenings, and general health consultations. Men and women from various communities who were beneficiaries of the programme expressed their gratitude to Chief Akagburuonye for the initiative” he said
Opara also commended Akagburuonye, whom through his Hope Rising For Imolites foundation empowered and trained more than 25,000 youths on Solar Energy/CCTV installation and maintenance for free.
He urged well meaning Imolites to follow Akagburuonye’s footsteps and prioritize initiatives that directly benefit their communities and the State.
Opara said Akagburuonye has also made significant strides in youth empowerment through his computer and ICT training programmes.
“These programmes aim to equip young people with essential digital skills, preparing them for a competitive job market in an increasingly tech-driven world.
“The future of our state lies in the hands of our youth, and Akagburuonye’s commitment to their ICT development is commendable,” Opara said.
He noted that Chief Akagburuonye’s philanthropy also extends to the media community.
He said “Akagburuonye recently provided a water borehole to the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Imo State. This initiative has been widely appreciated by Imo journalists, who often work in challenging conditions
“Access to clean water is a basic necessity that should not be overlooked,” Opara remarked.
He stressed the importance of supporting those who inform the public and hold power to account, acknowledging the vital role of journalists in the society and the challenges they face in discharging their functions
Chief Opara added that in addition to healthcare and education, Akagburuonye has contributed to local infrastructure by constructing a Cathedral and several churches in Mbaise, Egbu and Abuja for Assembles Of God Church,a project that has provided a place for spiritual and social gatherings.
“These churches are not buildings; it is a center for hope and unity,” Opara noted
Opara, who is the coordinator, Hope Rising For Imolites, Owerri North chapter, emphasized that these philanthropic endeavours reflect Akagburuonye’s deep commitment to improving the lives of the people in Imo State.
“True leadership is demonstrated through selfless service, and Akagburuonye embodies this principle,” he declared.
He called on other philanthropic organizations to collaborate with him in carrying out projects that will be of benefit to the people.
“With such collaboration, there will be a ripple effect of positive change across Imo State,” Opara asserted.