Umuasua Community hosted a historic multi-level event featuring culture, development, and honours. Click to read full details of the landmark celebration.
Umuasua Autonomous Community in Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State witnessed a historic convergence of culture, development, and honour on December 26, 2025, as sons and daughters of the community gathered for a four-level landmark event organised by the Umuasua Progressive Association (UPA) under the leadership of its President General, Mazi Ozoememna Igbokwe.
The well attended ceremony combined age-grade retirement, age grade inauguration, community development planning, and honour awards, making it one of the most comprehensive end-of-year celebrations in Umuasua’s recent history.
Tears, Joy as Patriotic and Mara Nwanne Age Grades Bow Out After Decades of Service
One of the most emotional moments of the event was the formal retirement of two revered age grades Patriotic and Mara Nwanne.
Elderly members of the retired grades, some visibly fragile but deeply fulfilled, took part in a solemn yet joyful procession. Supported by family members, friends, and well-wishers who travelled from far and near, the retirees expressed gratitude for being alive to witness the honour accorded them after years of selfless service to Umuasua.
The atmosphere reflected gratitude, fulfillment, and communal pride, as cheers and tears mixed freely.
Youth Take the Baton as Oganihu Age Grade Is Inaugurated
Balancing tradition with continuity, the community also inaugurated a new age grade — Oganihu Age Grade.
Young, energetic, and visibly proud, members of the new age grade celebrated their formal entry into Umuasua’s age-grade system, a cultural institution regarded as the backbone of unity, development, and social responsibility in the community.
Their excitement underscored the community’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while grooming the next generation of leaders.
₦200 Million Civic/Skill Acquisition Centre Unveiled to Drive Development
A major highlight of the day was the official launch of a ₦200 million Civic and Skill Acquisition Centre, a project aimed at empowering youths, reducing unemployment, and strengthening Umuasua’s socio-economic base.
Addressing the gathering, UPA President General, Mazi Ozoememna Igbokwe, outlined the achievements of the current UPA executive and explained the urgent need for the civic centre, describing it as a long-term investment in human capital, innovation, and self-reliance.
He noted that the project aligns with the association’s vision of transforming Umuasua into a model community driven by skills, unity, and opportunity.
Gen. Ihejirika Applauds Unity, Age-Grade System, Promises Agricultural Support
Chairman of the event, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (Rtd), former Chief of Army Staff, commended Umuasua for its strong unity, cultural discipline, and sustained age-grade tradition.
He described the age-grade system as a powerful tool for development and social order, urging the community to continue preserving it.
Gen. Ihejirika also encouraged Umuasua people, especially youths, to embrace agriculture, promising to create opportunities and support for community members interested in agricultural ventures.
Meritorious Sons Honoured with ‘O CHU IKPOGHO N’ASUA’ Title
The grand finale of the event was the prestigious honour awards ceremony for outstanding Umuasua sons whose lives and careers have brought pride and progress to the community.
The honour, titled “O CHU IKPOGHO N’ASUA”, was conferred on:
Late Engr. Dr. Isaac Ihedi Nnadi, OFR
Dr. John Ikeorgu
High Chief Emmanuel O. Peters, JP
Mr. Victor C. Onyenkpa
Sir Dr. Emmanuel U. Ukeje
Hon. Lucky Udoka Nweke Johnson, KJW
Kenneth Ahia, SAN
The awards recognised decades of service, leadership, and commitment to Umuasua and humanity at large.
Dignitaries Grace Umuasua’s Day of Pride
The ceremony attracted an impressive lineup of dignitaries, including:
Rt. Hon. Ude Oko Chukwu, former Deputy Governor of Abia State
Mayor Chinedu Ekeke, Executive Chairman, Isuikwuato LGA
Hon. Engr. Harrison Onuke, Labour Party Chairman, Isuikwuato LGA & Commissioner I, ASUBEB
Chief Chidiebere Uguru, President General, Isuikwuato Development Union
Chief Emmanuel Okorokwo, Chairman, Abia Arise, Isuikwuato LGA
H.E. Onyekwere Akym Uche, A.A Governorship Candidate (2023)
Traditional rulers, community leaders, professionals, and numerous VIPs
The event concluded in high spirits, marked by music, cultural displays, and renewed commitment to unity and progress.
From emotional farewells to retired elders, to youthful celebrations, bold development plans, and honouring excellence, Umuasua’s December 26 gathering stood as a powerful statement of identity, continuity, and collective aspiration.
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