Vanguard Lifetime Award: Igwe Ogbonna hails Jim Nwobodo as Icon of leadership

…Commends Vanguard for recognising excellence

By Chinedu Adonu

The traditional ruler of Ogugu Ntu-egbenese Ancient Kingdom in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, His Royal Highness Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr, has praised former governor, Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo, on his receipt of a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards.

Igwe Ogbonna spoke on Saturday while addressing journalists on the honour conferred on the octogenarian at the event held in Lagos.

He described Nwobodo as one of the distinguished sons of the Ntu-egbenese clan, noting that his contributions to national development, as well as to Enugu State and his community, remain visible and impactful.

According to the monarch, the award is well deserved, as it recognises Nwobodo’s role in the development of the old Anambra State—now comprising Enugu, Anambra, and Ebonyi states—where he implemented projects, policies, and programmes that have endured over time.

“I am pleased to celebrate an icon of leadership, a father, and a mentor to many. This award acknowledges his contributions to our state, the South East, and Nigeria. During his tenure as governor of old Anambra State between 1979 and 1983, he recorded notable achievements focused on development across the state,” he said.

Igwe Ogbonna noted that Nwobodo established the Anambra State University of Science and Technology, as well as colleges of education in Nsugbe and Eha-Amufu, to expand access to higher education.

He added that in infrastructure and sports, the former governor built the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and improved roads and public facilities across the region.

“To boost tourism and business, he constructed the Nike Lake Resort Hotel and Ikenga Hotels in Enugu, Onitsha, and Awka, while also strengthening media development through the establishment of the Anambra State Television,” he stated.

The monarch further described Nwobodo as a model of service, urging younger leaders to emulate his people-oriented governance style and commitment to tangible results.

He said such recognition should inspire unity, diligence, and renewed dedication to community development across the South East and Nigeria.

Igwe Ogbonna also commended Vanguard Newspaper for using its platform to recognise excellence and prayed for continued grace and guidance for Nwobodo and his family.