Chieftaincy
By Chukwuemeka Opara
Abakaliki, Dec. 30, 2025 (NAN) Dr Fatima Aliyu, the National Programme Coordinator (NPC), IFAD-assisted VCDP, has called for greater unity among Nigerians, saying the nation’s diversity should unite its people.
Aliyu spoke on Tuesday, when she was conferred the chieftaincy title of “Nne na-edozi obodo” (meaning a champion of community development) of Amike Autonomous Community of Ohaukwu LGA of Ebonyi.
She urged Nigerians to be their brothers’ keepers, “no matter the region of the country they hail from”.
She said: “I feel highly honoured by this title and promise to do more for the community being a part of it presently.
“We feel gratified that the community appreciates IFAD–VCDP’s positive impact on it, for which it also conferred a chieftaincy title on our State Programme Coordinator, Chief Sunday Ituma.”
Aliyu said the programme was operating in eight LGAs of the state, adding that he was satisfied with the impact made on its people.
“We would continue enhancing the food security and income of small holder farmers involved in the rice and cassava value chains, sustainably.
“My affinity with Ebonyi has grown tremendously as I visited a fortnight ago for the distribution of farm inputs to benefitting farmers for dry season farming.
“The governor, who was represented by his wife, expressed pleasure with our interventions in the state.
“So did all the dignitaries present on the occasion,” Aliyu said.
In a remark, the SPC said that the community had benefitted in rural infrastructure, such as culvert, mini-bridges, and market development, among others.
“We are honoured to have the NPC in Ebonyi for the second time in a fortnight. This is a rare privilege.
“The NPC’s presence will inspire us to do more toward actualising the programme’s objectives in the state,” Atuma said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the the Traditional Ruler of the community, Eze Mike Nwankwo, also conferred chieftaincy titles on well-meaning individuals from the community and other parts of Ebonyi and the country. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
RCO/USO
Edited by Sam Oditah