The Imo State Government has called on Ogbako Ndigbo Nile (ONN) to fully align its adult literacy education programs with the state’s Ministry of Education to ensure proper execution and greater impact across local communities. The call was made by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Bernard O.T. Ikegwuonu, during the official unveiling of the program on August 5, 2025, in Umuagwo, Ohaji/Egbema LGA.
Addressing a crowd of community leaders and stakeholders, Prof. Ikegwuonu emphasized that education remains the most powerful tool for societal transformation and must not be limited by age or social status. “Education is a leveler—it knows no age, class, or color. What matters is the acquisition of knowledge,” he declared, urging residents to seize the opportunity offered by ONN’s initiative.
The Commissioner also promised that the state government would consider the establishment of a secondary school in Umuagwo, provided the community formally submits a request. He encouraged locals to support the adult education campaign and contribute to uplifting vulnerable youth through accessible, community-driven learning programs.
Prof. Ikegwuonu called on the organization to collaborate more strategically with the government, particularly in aligning their grassroots efforts with state education policies. He further urged ONN to revive traditional Igbo values in raising children, stressing that these values were key to a stronger, more unified society.
Ambassador Akpelu Azuna, President General of Ogbako Ndigbo Nile, explained that the organization has adopted a door-to-door approach to eliminate adult illiteracy in Igbo-speaking communities. According to him, the literacy program began in Enugu and is now being expanded across Imo, with plans to cover all southeastern states.
Despite being a self-funded organization without national financial support, ONN donated food items and learning materials during the unveiling, drawing cheers from participants already enrolled in the program. Azuna urged leaders in Ohaji/Egbema to replicate the initiative across all wards, calling it a moral obligation for Igbo progress.
The event culminated with an award presentation to Prof. Ikegwuonu and other distinguished guests in recognition of their support. Photos captured the Commissioner receiving his award from Amb. Azuna, symbolizing a new alliance between grassroots educators and government in the fight against adult illiteracy.
