The National President of the kingdom, Hon. Chika Nwangele (Asaa) said during the Lavish Ceremony held at the Oganiru ground on Sunday, that Ife Mmaku was being honoured for his distinguished and immeasurable contributions to the growth and development of the area.
Nwangele said that Ife Mmaku traveled overseas when the award was to be given to him during the last Kpirikpiri Day Celebration and when he returned to the country, he insisted on coming before his people to receive the award.
"This is a son of the soil who was born and bred here and since his sojourn outside these shores, has given back tremendously to this area that nurtured him.
"We hold him in high esteem and that is why we are organising this avid home coming before his people who love and cherish him," .
He noted that a key attribute of Ife Mmaku's exploits was the motivation to go outside, conquer and return to the people with glory and affluence.
"Ife Mmaku has shown us that we can sojourn and bring back conquests instead of being nuisance to the society.
"This has greatly motivated our youths to be ambitious, engage in legitimate ventures, be prayerful, succeed exceedingly and become a blessing to the area," .
Nwangele thanked Ife Mmaku for always remembering his roots and noted that the prayers from the people especially mothers would always see him through in his sojourns.
"We are giving you this award as a source of strength and victory to conquer and bring back our share of good tidings.
"We would soon send you to represent us at the upper echelon of governance as we know that you will always answer us when we call," he said.
Chief Ferdinand Anichukwude "Ife Mmaku" thanked the people for honouring him, assuring that he would never let them down.
"This is my root, where I grew and played football as a Kid and I will never forget this place.
"I am short of words over this award and promise to factor the Onunwofoke Kingdom in my scheme of things,".
He urged the people especially the youths to keep the burning spirit of oneness existing among them, alive and always live in peace and unity.
"Let us believe in our abilities to succeed despite obstacles and God will see us through.
"This is our home and we would do all we can to uplift it," .
He appreciated the award with a huge sum of cash, noting that it was also a morale and image booster for him as plans to embark on his political journey.
"That journey will see me aspiring for the highest political office in the land,".
The occasion was graced by prominent stakeholders of the area, governmental dignitaries, youths, the aged and friends of the area.
