From Ijeoma John Nnewi
The incumbent Transition Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Engr.Chris Obiorah has immortalised the first female Governor in Nigeria, Dame Virginia Ngozi Etiaba.
Dame Etiaba, who served as Governor of Anambra State, from November 2006 to February 2007, made history with a brief tenure that lasted only three months in office.
Based on her outstanding contributions and commitment to laudable infrastructural development in Anambra State, the TC Chairman, using his good offices and in concert with the Nnewi community, chose to name a street after her.
The dedication ceremony was graced by men of timber and caliber in Nnewi. Among them were the Obi of Uruagu, Obi Ogidi: Obi of Umudim, Obi Beneth Okafor; a renowned industrialist, Chief Dr Cletus Madubugwu Ibeto (Omekannaya), Barr Emeka Etiaba (SAN), PG Uruagu Community, Mr Innocent Okoli, and Augustine Njideofo. The newly elected Chairman of Nnewi North, Hon Echezona Anazodo and his Deputy, Mrs Ijeoma Okoli, were at the ceremony.
The TC Chairman, Engr Obiorah, presented the certificate of honor to Dame Virgy Etiaba. Engr Obiorah said he was honored to present the certificate to a woman who had made significant contributions to the country, especially in Anambra State.
Engr Obiorah disclosed that the “street runs from Roundabout Nnewi to the boundary between Nnewi and Orafite.”
Obiorah prayed that God would continue to keep Etiaba strong for Nnewi people, adding that she deserved honor.
Chief Dr Cletus Ibeto, while speaking with some journalists, described Dame Etiaba as a powerful and respected woman.
“It’s an honor to remember her while alive, even when God calls her the street name remains, ” Ibeto said.
Omekannaya commended Engr Obiorah, the TC Chairman, for the initiative, adding that the development remains irreversible and would outlive everyone.
Ibeto appreciated Etiaba for her laudable contributions to the development of Nigeria, and especially in Anambra State. He prayed that she would continue to blossom before God Almighty to enjoy the fruits of her labor.
Bar Emeka Etiaba, on behalf of his family, thanked the TC Chairman, Engr Chris Obiorah, for the wonderful initiative.
Barr Emeka Etiaba revealed that what Engr Obiorah did will forever be in their hearts, adding that God Almighty would honor him.
“We are very grateful to the TC Chairman and the entire Nnewi community for honoring our mother by naming a street after her while she is alive” he said.
Etiaba prayed that God Almighty would continue to bless and prosper the people of Nnewi for this thoughtful act.