…unveils ambitious plan to establish a Smart Green School in Imeoha Nkerefi.
ENUGU, NIGERIA – The iNews Times | The quiet community of Imeoha Nkerefi in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State transformed into a vibrant canvas of colour, music, and heritage as indigenes and guests celebrated the 2025 Iri Ji (New Yam) Festival under the distinguished leadership of HRH Igwe Luke Ogbu Ogbuta Okorie, the Ezeanyịanyanyaanaecheoha I of Imeoha Nkerefi.
The two-day cultural celebration, held on Saturday, October 25, was not just a display of traditional splendour but a profound statement of compassion and purposeful leadership.
Education Before Feast
In a rare act of generosity, Igwe Ogbu Ogbuta Okorie awarded ₦6.2 million in bursaries to 62 students drawn from Nkerefi’s four autonomous communities.
“Instead of feasting alone, we invest in the destiny of our children,” the monarch declared. “Education is the light that will keep Nkerefi shining.”
The initiative, he explained, was part of his commitment to ensuring that culture becomes a tool for empowerment, not just entertainment.
Vision for a Modern Nkerefi
During his royal address, Igwe Okorie reaffirmed his support for the ongoing free medical outreaches being conducted across Enugu, Abia, and Lagos States. He also unveiled an ambitious plan to establish a Smart Green School in Imeoha Nkerefi, designed to integrate digital learning and sustainable practices.
The monarch commended Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his strides in inclusive governance and rural development but urged greater attention to Nkerefi’s infrastructural needs.
“Your Excellency, we thank you sincerely,” he said. “Yet, like Oliver Twist, we humbly ask for more better roads, clean water, a health centre, and a higher institution for Nkerefi.”
Call for Strategic Investment
In a bold proposal, the royal father called for the establishment of an airport or auxiliary aviation hub within Nkerefi, citing the community’s vast landmass and favourable terrain. He also reaffirmed partnership with Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), describing it as a gateway to agro-industrial and renewable energy investment.
“Our land is open to investors in renewable energy, light manufacturing, and agro-processing,” he said.
A Thanksgiving of Peace and Promise
The festival reached its climax with a Thanksgiving Service at St Luke’s Methodist Church on Sunday, October 26. Representing Governor Mbah, Hon. Frank Anioma conveyed the state government’s goodwill and commended the monarch for blending tradition with social progress.
Other royal fathers in attendance included HRH Igwe Michael Ogbonnaya of Ishienu and HRH Igwe Onukwube of Enuogu. The event’s seamless coordination was credited to the Iri Ji Planning Committee, chaired by Dr Patrick Njoku, while the Head of Media and Publicity, Hon. Chukwudi Bernard, ensured comprehensive and professional coverage.
In his closing benediction, Igwe Ogbuta Okorie prayed, “May peace dwell in Nkerefi; may our barns overflow; may our youths rise and shine.” He expressed gratitude to his wife, the community chiefs, clergy, youths, and security agencies for their steadfast support.
As the drums faded and the yam fires cooled, Imeoha Nkerefi stood renewed, a community proud of its heritage, anchored in compassion, and united by a vision for a brighter tomorrow.
