The Nigerian Man O’ War, Imo State Command, in a leadership transition and handover ceremony held in Owerri, promoted Engr. Anthony I. Oji-Dike as the Acting State Commander, while Dr. Adizua Camela assumed a new office as the South East Regional Commander, overseeing Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Anambra, and Enugu States.
Before his elevation, Engr. Oji-Dike served as Head of the Finance and Accounting Department and later as Acting Deputy Commander in charge of the state.
In his remarks, he described Man O’ War as “a voluntary organization capable of fighting social vices across the country and ensuring peace among the youth.”
He appealed to the Federal Government to formally recognize the organization, especially by integrating its programmes into secondary schools to help combat drug abuse, violence, and other social vices affecting young people. “It is important that the government remembers the herculean task the paramilitary renders in curbing societal ills so that the youths can be engaged properly and become responsible citizens,” he added.
Oji-Dike further prayed for legal recognition and inclusion of the organization in national security and youth development schemes, stressing its role in complementing other paramilitary agencies.
Addressing members, the outgoing State Commander, now Regional Commander, Dr. Adizua Camela, urged them to remain focused, law-abiding, and hardworking, assuring that the sacrifices of the organization would one day be fully rewarded. She also charged the new Acting Commander to remain resolute in discharging his duties effectively.
Dr. Adizua, a pioneer and strong advocate of Man O’ War since its establishment in 1951, reminded members of its historic role in fighting social ills. She emphasized that the organization is working towards meeting federal standards for wider engagement and encouraged youths to join, noting that “a time will come when recruitment into Man O’ War will be highly competitive.”
Expressing satisfaction with the dedication of members, she praised their support to other security agencies in combating crime. She also advised them to remain proactive, disciplined, and humble to achieve greater success.
The event also recognized the contributions of National Commander N.C. Gbenga Ademola, ANC Anene (former South East Regional Commander), and Hon. Mandela, Commissioner for Petroleum, for their unwavering support towards youth development.
During the handover ceremony held at the organization’s Secretariat, Youth House, Government House Annex, Owerri, opposite Concord Hotel, Dr. Adizua also called on Governor Hope Uzodimma to give greater attention to youth welfare and create stronger partnerships with the organization for the development of the state.
The ceremony was attended by zonal commanders from Okigwe, Orlu, and Owerri zones, as well as other distinguished members of the organization.
