Canada-based medical doctor, philanthropist, politician and community leader, Dr. Chinedu Anthony Umeadi, says his recognition as the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Man of the Year 2024 has significantly boosted his visibility, credibility, and motivation to do more for humanity.
In an exclusive interview with the NUJ Anambra Watchdog Magazine crew led by the State Council Chairman, Dr Emeka Odogwu, Dr. Umeadi described the honour as one of the greatest milestones of his career.
He stressed that it has deepened public awareness of his philanthropic activities and commitment to societal development.
“It is a significant honour to be recognised by the NUJ as the Man of the Year in Anambra State,” he said. “The award means a lot to me. People now respect me more and are interested in knowing who I am and what I have done.
It increased my visibility and popularity, especially because I emerged based on my charity work. Many more people have now become aware of the community support and humanitarian activities I’ve been doing.”
Dr. Umeadi, who runs the Dr. Chinedu Umeadi Foundation, explained that the recognition has served as motivation to expand his ongoing interventions in education, health, and poverty alleviation.
“The NUJ award is an encouragement — a pat on the back to keep doing good,” he submitted.
Running for over six years
According to him, “The foundation has been running for over six years.” “We support education through quiz competitions and scholarship programmes, offer free medical treatment, and carry out health outreaches for the poor.
“Some thought my 2023 programmes were politically motivated because I ran for Senate under the Young Progressives Party (YPP), but this has continued beyond politics.”
He reaffirmed that his philanthropic gestures would continue as long as resources allow.
“Everything depends on the funds available, but with God’s blessings, we will keep expanding our activities and touching more lives,” he assured.
According to Dr. Umeadi, the NUJ award stands out among all his achievements because it came from the media — a critical pillar of democracy and public accountability.
“This recognition by journalists is the greatest of them all,” he declared. “When the entire media community in the state says you are their Man of the Year, it is a huge honour.
Credibility of the process
“It has contributed immensely to my personal and professional growth. It’s now proudly added to my CV. People, both in Nigeria and abroad, now see me as an honourable man who has done a lot for society.”
He commended the NUJ Anambra State Council for its transparency and integrity, urging them to sustain their credibility in award processes.
“You are doing a fantastic job,” he told the union. “Remain transparent and fearless. Honesty is the biggest honour anyone can have.”
On his political future, the medical doctor, who was the YPP candidate for Anambra Central Senatorial District in the 2023 general elections, said he remains committed to strengthening his party’s structure across the state.
“I am currently the leader of YPP in Anambra State,” he revealed. “My focus now is to make the party more formidable.
“I will speak about future ambitions when the time comes. I still have an eye on the Senate, but I haven’t made a final decision yet.
“For now, I am observing the political landscape and will decide at the right time.”
Reflecting on his lifelong passion for helping others, Dr. Umeadi said his humanitarian drive started early in life. “I’ve always had compassion for others,” he recalled.
“As a child, I shared what little I had. Becoming a doctor strengthened my desire to help.
“I’ve always believed that if God blesses me, I should bless others. I also hope my actions inspire others to do the same.”
Focus on Humanity, Governance
Umeadi celebrated his 50th birthday anniversary recently said his next chapter will focus more on governance, mentorship, and human development.
“As I enter my 5th decade, I’m grateful for God’s blessings,” he reflected. “Good health is my greatest gift.
“I plan to retire from active medical practice in a few years and devote more time to service, governance, and mentoring the younger generation.
“I want to help make Anambra and Nigeria better through leadership and philanthropy.”
Dr. Umeadi ended the interview with words of appreciation to the NUJ Anambra Council.
“I thank the NUJ for their insight, focus, and solidarity. The award has been a great honour.
“Whoever wins NUJ Man of the Year never remains the same. I wish my successor, Arc. Okey Ezeobi, the best and urge him to do even greater exploits.
“We shall support the union under Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu to fence the compound. I wish my successor, Arc Okey Ezeobi the best.
“The honour is great and whoever wins NUJ Anambra State man of the year never remains the same. He is lucky to have won.
“He should do greater exploits to bring goodwill to the union better than I have done. We will continue to support the union in all its activities.”
