PR expert, Godfrey Osakwe, calls for holistic development of Anioma

A PUBLIC relations practitioner, Mr. Godfrey Chukwudifu Osakwe, has said that there is an urgent need for a holistic development of Anioma nation if it must stand shoulder to shoulder with other ethnic nationalities in Nigeria.

Anioma, which, by political configuration is known as Delta North, is one of the numerous ethnic nationalities in the oil rich Delta State.

Osakwe who spoke at the 2017 Anioma National Summit and Fundraiser at the La Quinta Inn & Suites, Nashville Tennessee, United States of America on Saturday, June 24, 2017, called on all sons and daughters of Anioma both in Nigeria and the Diaspora to spare no effort or cost in making sure that Anioma is placed in its pride of place in comity of ethnic nationality.

According to Osakwe, with the abundant human and natural resources in Anioma, the communities would have had a better outlook and more coordinated development adding that the underdevelopment of Anioma region is a paradox and a source of embarrassment to people with good conscience.

“My message here is clear and simple, and that is that we must change the narrative of who we are, to reflect our true nature as a people of great value and ultimately the general outlook of what Anioma communities should be. We must get involved in the development of Anioma; we must hold to account those at the corridors of power, and who by chance are managing our commonwealth. We must not allow our voice to be overwhelmed by political influence of a few or get stuck in a social coma occasioned by a faulty system fueled by corruption.

“To achieve these, there must be unity of purpose among all Aniomas – Aniocha, Oshimili, Ika, Ndokwa and Ukwuani; we must cultivate the same spirit of love and brotherhood. We must deemphasize those things that tend to divide us as one entity. Indeed, Oneness of the mind should be our strength as a people. And when there is unity and collaboration, great things can be achieved,” he told the gathering.

He said that there was a need to begin to maximize every opportunity to mobilize Anioma people at the grassroots for capacity building and practical development of their people and community.

“To change the narrative, we must come together for collaborative partnership with relevant stakeholders so we can develop a unique mix of solutions for the development of Anioma.”

He said that it was gratifying to note that Anioma Association USA Incorporated has in the past contributed immensely and still contributing to the development of Anioma communities.