Prominent Igbo leaders have hailed De Imperial Philanthropic Family for its outstanding impact across the South-East, especially in youth empowerment, educational scholarships, and community development.
They made the commendation during the organization’s 6th Annual General Meeting at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The notable Igbo figures – Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Chief Osita Chidoka, and Dr. Sylvester Okonkwo all commended the group for sustaining a culture of philanthropy, unity, and purposeful intervention within Igboland.
National President, Dr. Darlington Nwabunike, in his welcome address, expressed gratitude to God for His grace, while celebrating the members for keeping alive the values of compassion, service, and collective progress.
A major intellectual highlight of the AGM was the panel session themed “The Emerging Southeast: Re-Inventing Its Past Glory.”
Speakers underscored the need for a new economic consciousness anchored on the Akụluọụnọ principle — reinvesting wealth at home as the foundation for regional revival.
Chidoka’s challenge
Chief Chidoka challenged participants to break free from habitual excuse-making and embrace personal responsibility for development:
“We must shift from a culture of alibi to a culture of agency. Progress begins when we take responsibility for shaping our destiny,” he said.
The AGM also showcased significant milestones recorded by the group in education, healthcare, social welfare, and entrepreneurship interventions.
Nine new members were inducted, expanding the organization’s capacity and influence within and beyond Nigeria.
It was also a night of honours, with several notable Igbo achievers receiving prestigious awards, including: Friedrich Forestythe Award of Honours – Hon. Justice Roseline Nonoyem Ukeje (First Female Judge of the Federal High Court) and Evergreen Legends Award – Late Prof. Humphrey Nwobu Nwosu.
Sterling Profile Award of Excellence in Business & Entrepreneurship went to Dr. Sir Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi, OFR (GMD, Obijackson Group), Sir Louis Odumegwu Ojukwu Award of Excellence in Business & Entrepreneurship – Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, CFR while award of Exemplary Professional Excellence went to Inspector Ugochukwu Prince Orji.
The event ended with renewed commitment to deepen humanitarian impact, promote unity, celebrate Igbo heritage, and strengthen sustainable development across the South-East.
De Imperial Philanthropic Family says it remains resolute in its mission to empower communities, reward excellence, and raise a generation of leaders driven by integrity, innovation, and service.
