Jan 26, 2007

Ogoni: Community Members Awarded


The Bonnadum Foundation honored 24 members of the Ogoni community for their contributions to the socio-economic development of Ogoni ethnic nationality.

Below is an article published by The Tide Online:

A non-governmental organisation involved in community development and human capital investment in Ogoni land, Bonnadum Foundation, has honoured 24 distinguished sons and daughters of Ogoni for their untiring contributions to the socio-economic development of Ogoni ethnic nationality in their respective fields of endeavour.

Among those honoured is the General Manager, Rivers State Newspaper Corporation, Mr Augustine Nwikinaka. Mr Nwikinaka a seasoned journalist and public relations expert, and Mr Suanu Samuel, another tested media practitioner, bagged the award of excellence in journalism.

The award ceremony, which took place at Baen in Khana LGA, marked the 14th anniversary celebration of Ogoni Day on January 4, 2007.

Other Ogonis who bagged the award include, the Vice Chancellor of University of Port Harcourt, Prof Don Baridam, US-based Professor of Clinical Pharmacology, Prof Vincent Idemyor, Dr Penninah Kemte Giadom, Prof Pius Kinako and Prof G. N. Gbosi, who received the award of excellence for their exploits in academics, while the Chief Medical Director, Rivers State, Dr John Nwidadah, a former commissioner for health in the state, Dr Israel Kue, were honoured for excellence in medical practice.

Others include, Rt Rev. Wellington Yobe, Apostle Dr P. E. Kine, Col Letam Wiwa, Mr Ledogo Yorkina, Dr Constance Sarowiyo, Chief Lekue Lah Loolo, Dr J. N. D. Meenyinikor, Mr Albert Yobo and Mr Joseph Yobo.

In his welcome address, the President of the foundation, Mr Nuka Nwikpasi, said award was in appreciation of the contributions of some Ogoni sons and daughters who have by their personal attainment, significantly projected Ogoni to greater heights, stressing that the award will spur them to do more for their people.

Speaking on behalf of the recipients, the Chief Medical Director, Rivers State, Dr John Nwidadah, expressed deep appreciation over the award, adding that the awardees will not relent their efforts at development, but will remain worthy ambassadors of Ogoni land.

In an acceptance speech sent to the occasion, one of the recipients of the award, Prof Vincent Idemyor, thanked the foundation for its vision in recognizing hardwork and commitment to the service of humanity.

Prof Idemyor, harped on the need for educational development in Ogoni, stressing that only effective professional practice in chosen careers can stimulate real growth and development.