By
Olaiwola A. Lawal
Literary minds and cultural figures from across and beyond Imo State converged on Sunday, May 26, 2025, at Whelan Research Academy, as Ms. Deborah Chinonyerem Uzoma unveiled her debut children’s poetry collection, My Father’s House and Other Poems, to wide acclaim and celebration.
The Chairman of the ocassion, Rev. Fr. Dr. Anthony Njoku expressed his excitement and joy in celebrating Deborah’s achievement. He acknowledged her progress as a writer and her contributions to the literary community, particularly as the State Secretary of ANA Imo State Chapter. Fr. Njoku congratulated everyone for their punctuality to time and urged them to support Deborah.
Dr. Christabel Onyema, a senior lecturer with the Department of English and Literary Studies, Imo State University, reviewed the book, highlighting its significance to the society and the author’s dedication to children’s literature.
The First Lady of Imo State, Her Excellency Chief Barr. (Dr.) Chioma Uzodinma ably represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare , Honourable Nkechinyere Ugwu read a speech, emphasizing the importance of literature and urged everyone to make literature an integral part of them, investing in cultural landscape and preservation. She praised Deborah and ANA’s role in promoting creativity in society.
The Pro-chancellor of Imo State University, Rev. Fr. Prof. Philip Ogbonna praised Deborah’s creative intelligence and encouraged her to continue writing. He described Deborah as “a writer who would get to a stage where she can disseminate information that she has and would not die with the knowledge”.
The book luanch featured a delightful recitation of poetry verses by children with titles such as, “Good Morning”, “This is the way I brush my teeth”, and “My New Slippers”, among others, showcasing the essence of the collection.
The book was further unveiled by the First Lady’s representative and members of the high table, followed by a massive show of support from attendees, including Deborah’s parents, Bishop Prof. Emmanuel and Rev. Mrs. Ngozi Uzoma .
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Deborah, who expressed her joy to Almighty God and everyone who showed up for her and supported her.
Other notable attendees included Mr. Camilus Ukah, former National President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Mr. Collins Emeghara, Chairman, ANA, Imo State, Mr. Kelechi Nwaguma, representative of the Honourable Commissioner for Youths Development and Talent Hunt,Imo State. Dr. Mrs. Deborah Eddy-Ugorji, Head of Branch, National Library of Nigeria, Imo State, Pastor Vallence and Melody Nnabuo(The Vallence), Hon., and Mrs Bright Ahamefule, Secretary to Ikeduru LGA headquarters, Iho, Mr. Osmond Onuh, a doctoral student at the University of Nigeria and a member of the Graduate Student Fellowship, UNN, Members of Christ Victorious Alive Revival Mission, Alumnus of Methodist High School and a host of friends and well wishers.
The event drew dignitaries, renowned authors, and literary enthusiasts who gathered to honour Deborah Uzoma’s creative achievement. It stood as a testament to her dedication to literature and marked a defining moment in her journey as a writer. The celebration concluded with vibrant photo sessions alongside friends, family, and colleagues.
