Major General Raymond Ochei of the Nigerian Army, an illustrious Son of Delta State, has pledged his support for the activities of the Organization for the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC), towards the promotion and preservation of the Anioma rich cultural heritage.
Maj. Gen. Ochei made the pledge on Friday, April 18, when a high-powered delegation from the Organization led by the President of the Organization, Architect Kesta Ifeadi, paid him a courtesy visit at his residence in Onicha-Olona, Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State.
The Army Major General, who is also a renowned culture advocate for the promotion and advancement of Anioma cultural heritage, commended OFAAC’s efforts in preserving and promoting Anioma’s cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation in today’s world.
Maj.General Ochei equally highlighted OFAAC’s contributions to youth empowerment, community development, and creating a sense of national identity among the youth.
He paid a special tribute to the late Omu Anioma, Her Royal Majesty, Obi Martha Dunkwu, for her significant contributions to the preservation of Anioma’s culture and heritage and while assuring OFAAC of his support and collaboration, encouraged the Organization to continue its efforts in uniting the Anioma people and advancing the appreciation and development of their cultural heritage, even as he emphasized the need for more aggressive campaigns to promote Anioma’s rich culture and traditional heritage.
“This is a delightful surprise and honour which I will cherish for a very long time.
“It is a great pleasure to know that Anioma sons and daughters are passionate and committed as I am in preserving our cultural heritage and traditions. I assure you that this honour and the collaboration you seek from me are not taken for granted especially at this time.
“As we all know, cultural heritage across the world is at risk of extinction and their preservation should be an urgent and important agenda for every culture-loving individual or organization.
“I am proud of your achievements and what you represent for us, the Aniomas. I assure you of my support in every way possible to see that you continue to unite our people and advance the appreciation and development of the cultural heritage of Anioma people,” Maj.General Ochei said.
Earlier, the President of OFAAC, Architect Kesta Ifeadi expressed the organization’s appreciation to Maj.General Ochei for his love and unwavering commitment to the good and development of the Anioma Nation.
While praising him for his immense support for OFAAC activities, Architect Ifeadi said the courtesy visit was to strengthen the bond between OFAAC and Major General Ochei, who he noted, shared a common passion for preserving and promoting Anioma’s cultural heritage.
He added that OFAAC’s efforts have made a significant impact in promoting unity, peace, and cultural development within the Anioma enclave and appreciated Maj General Ochei, for his encouragement and support to the Anioma’s leading cultural Organization, in it’s laudable activities and impressive efforts towards the sustenance of Anioma cultural heritage for posterity.
The OFAAC delegation included the traditional ruler of Ubulu-Unor and Ukala, His Royal Majesties, Obi Henry Kikachukwu and Obi Clement Ejiofor respectively.
OFAAC Vice President; Mr Paddy Ugbo, National Secretary; Monday Olodu and two Directors of the Organization; Emma Ogwu and Afam Ugah were also among the delegations.
Highpoint of the visit was the observing of a moment of silence in honour of the late Omu Anioma, Her Royal Majesty, Obi Martha Dunkwu
