By Racheal Najin Babatunde
The World Igbo Youth Assembly (WIYA) has conferred a prestigious leadership and impact award on Rt. Hon. Chief Samuel Iheanyichukwu Onuigbo, FNIM, in recognition of his outstanding service, commitment to youth empowerment, and exemplary leadership across Nigeria and beyond.
The award ceremony, held at Chief Onuigbo’s country home in Ikwuano, was attended by dignitaries, community leaders, members of the Sam Onuigbo Foundation, youth groups, and media representatives. It was a colourful celebration of a man described as “one of Igbo’s finest breeds” and a “nation builder of global repute.”
Delivering the keynote address, the Global President of WIYA, Chief James Chibuike Ajuzie, extolled Chief Onuigbo as an astute administrator and a rare public servant whose life and career have remained rooted in service, integrity, and people-centered leadership.
“We have come today to give honour to whom it is due,” Chief Ajuzie said. “Chief Onuigbo has stood as a beacon of hope and decency in public life. He has continued all his lifetime to bank on human capital development, empowering youths at different levels and advocating for a better, stronger Igboland.”
WIYA, described as the apex umbrella body of Igbo youths worldwide, said it chose to honour Chief Onuigbo not only for his political achievements but for his consistent investment in the younger generation. “He believes so much in the genuine productivity of the younger generations for good,” Ajuzie noted, adding that the former legislator’s mentorship and commitment have inspired many young people to pursue purposeful lives.
Chief Onuigbo, a former member of the House of Representatives for the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency and former commissioner in Abia State, was also lauded for his national contributions, including his current role as a board member of the North-East Development Commission (NEDC). The NEDC was established to rebuild and develop the North-East region devastated by insurgency.
Known for his financial acumen and legislative excellence, Chief Onuigbo was described as “an unmatchable legislator standing tall in the field of lawmaking and governance.” His efforts in climate policy, economic development, and education were repeatedly referenced during the event.
“He is not just a name in the National Assembly records,” Ajuzie said. “He is a symbol of integrity, a true Christian who defends his faith, a well-traveled diplomat, and a prolific writer who derives joy in impacting knowledge.”
WIYA emphasized that the honour presented to Chief Onuigbo was not just an award but a declaration of solidarity between Igbo youth across the globe and a leader who has continually demonstrated that leadership is about service and vision.
In his response, Chief Onuigbo expressed deep appreciation to WIYA for the recognition. He thanked the youth body for its commitment to societal development and pledged continued support for youth-focused initiatives in education, enterprise, and civic engagement.
“I dedicate this award to every young person striving for a better future,” he said. “Our journey as a people is strengthened when we empower the next generation with knowledge, character, and opportunities.”
The event ended with cultural performances, group photographs, and renewed calls for more strategic partnerships between leaders and youth to build a prosperous Igboland and Nigeria.
