Prof Asigbo Hails EYAF as Transformational Force, Pledges Continued Support

By Olisemeka Obeche

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Alex Asigbo, has described the Elite Youths of Anam Foundation (EYAF) as a transformational movement whose activities have inspired a new generation of youths in Anam.

Prof. Asigbo made the remarks on Wednesday, May 6, while receiving an EYAF delegation in his office during a congratulatory visit following his appointment as Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

The university don also congratulated the foundation on its forthcoming 10th anniversary, commending its consistency in community development and youth empowerment over the years.

“I congratulate EYAF on 10 years of championing transformation in Anam. It has not been easy, but the foundation has continued to grow from strength to strength,” Asigbo said.

“Today, virtually every prominent stakeholder in Anam identifies with EYAF because people have come to appreciate the selfless service the organisation renders for the greater good of Ndị Anam.”

He further noted that the foundation’s efforts were helping to nurture future leaders within the community.

“What you are doing will surely pay off because you are inspiring a new generation of leaders. My commitment is that whatever support we can offer to advance the vision of EYAF, we will gladly do so,” he added.

Earlier in his remarks, the President of EYAF, Dr. Ejike Anekwe, said the delegation visited to celebrate Asigbo’s elevation to the office of Deputy Vice-Chancellor and to express appreciation for his longstanding support for the foundation since its inception.

“We are here to rejoice with you,” Anekwe said. “Your personal story, humble background and journey to this height remain a source of inspiration to many young people in Anam.”

“We are delighted that God has elevated you to this important office. Your success is also a victory for all of us who believe strongly in education as a pathway to success and societal advancement.”

Reflecting on the early years of the foundation, Anekwe recalled that EYAF struggled initially to gain public trust and acceptance.

“When we started, many people did not believe in us. Most of us had no stable jobs then, and it was difficult convincing people to identify with the vision,” he said.

“But personalities like Prof. Asigbo, Dr. Emman Udeh-Akpeh, Prof. Jaja Nwanegbo and a few others believed in us from the beginning. They gave us encouragement and credibility when we needed it most.”

According to him, Prof. Asigbo consistently honoured invitations to EYAF programmes without demanding honorarium, a gesture he said significantly boosted the organisation’s visibility and acceptance.

“His presence at our programmes gave us validation and encouragement. We do not take that support for granted,” Anekwe stated.

“We came personally to thank him for standing with EYAF over the years and to thank God for what this elevation means for Ndị Anam.”

Other EYAF members on the delegation included Dr. Roseline Paul Onyeka, Vice President; Olisemeka Obeche, Media and Publicity Secretary; Samuel Aniesodoo, Umuikwu Anam Representative; Emma Okeke, Umueze Anam Representative; Sunday Mmadubuonwu, Coordinator, Quiz and Scholarship; and Comrade Friday Ilegbunam Okeke, former Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria.