The Atta People’s Assembly of North America and Canada (APANA) has retained most of its executive members following the association’s convention held at the Good Shepherd Hall in Irvington, New Jersey, United States.

According to a statement issued after the summit by the Public Relations Officer of the association, Evangelist Evelyn Childs, many of the executive members were

returned unopposed during the election conducted under the supervision of the presiding officer, Dr Chris Azode from Arizona.

The newly elected executives are expected to pilot the affairs of the association for another four years.

The convention also produced Dr Ikenna Nwokem, the former Secretary of the Assembly, as the new Vice President, while Engr. Ugochukwu Okoko emerged as the new Secretary.

The election for the position of Financial Secretary was postponed until the association’s next general meeting scheduled for June 14.

Speaking after his re-election, the President of APANA, Chief Godwin Ehirim, said the association was established to foster unity, promote relationships and drive development among Atta indigenes both at home and in the diaspora.

Chief Ehirim stated that the assembly had continued to execute community development projects in Atta through members’ donations and fundraising initiatives.

He listed some of the projects already completed or currently ongoing, including the provision of solar energy as well as the fencing of healthcare centres in Ogada and Ntu.

According to him, the association is now focusing on improving healthcare delivery in Atta through the construction of staff quarters at the two health facilities.

In his opening remarks, the chairman of the occasion, Chief Emma Ibe, commended the assembly for its commitment to healthcare development in the community.

Chief Ibe also stressed that donations made towards the projects would be closely monitored to ensure transparency and successful execution.

The convention was chaired by Mr Oliver Egenti, popularly known as OJ, who also served as chairman of the planning committee for the event.

During the gathering, Egenti decorated several members in recognition of their unwavering support for the assembly and thanked guests for their solidarity and commitment to the progress of the Atta community.

Members of the planning committee included Lolo Chika Iwuanywu, Lolo Stella Ezeilo, Dr Alexander Njoku, Chief Adolphus Okpoebo, Mazi Justin Okafor and Lolo Chidinma Etumni, who travelled from Canada to attend the summit.

The statement noted that Lolo Chidinma Etumni demonstrated extraordinary commitment by travelling from Canada to the United States to participate in the convention.

At the summit, members also voted to hold the convention biannually, while the State of Maryland won the bid to host the next convention in 2028.

The newly elected executives of APANA are Chief Godwin Ehirim as President, Dr Ikenna Nwokem as Vice President, Engr. Ugochukwu Okoko as Secretary, Chief Dorothy Akujobi as Assistant Financial Secretary, Romanus Ajaero as Treasurer, Engr. Barnabas Lewis as Provost and Evangelist Evelyn Childs as Public Relations Officer.

The convention ended with members reaffirming their commitment to the unity, development and continued progress of the Atta community both at home and abroad.

JOIN THE SPORTS VILLAGE SQUARE CHANNEL:

https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H

BY KUNLE SOLAJA.

The 10th Annual National Convention of the Imo State Congress of America (ISCA) is set to hold from July 17 to 20, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Peachtree City, Atlanta, Georgia. This year’s gathering is expected to be a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and empowerment, especially spearheaded by the dynamic ISCA Women Committee.

This was disclosed in a press statement issued by Evangelist Evelyn Childs, the Public Relations Officer of the ISCA Women Committee.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Chairlady of the Women Committee, High Chief Lady Agnes Obaji (Nkpuruma), emphasised the pivotal role the women’s wing continues to play within ISCA. She described the committee as a powerhouse driving initiatives that uplift women both in the United States and back home in Imo State, Nigeria.

ISCA National President Chief Sir Frank Ekeigwe presenting an award to Josephine Nkiru Anusionwu(MAMAJOE (GBURUGBURU)at Oklahoma ‘2024

“Our women have made historic contributions in building ISCA’s legacy,” Lady Obaji noted. “From community outreach and cultural education to supporting widows and less privileged women in Imo, we’ve been active on all fronts.”

Under the leadership of Lolo Nkemdi Onyirimba and her executive board, the women have reportedly moved the committee to a “new dimension,” extending support to fellow members in times of need, emotionally, financially, and physically.

Obaji highlighted several impactful projects championed by the committee, including microfinance support for small businesses in Imo, food drives, and the construction of bus stop shelters in Owerri—although she acknowledged that security challenges in the state have temporarily stalled the latter.

The upcoming Women’s Conference will be held under the theme: “Bringing Back Our Dignity, Dynasty and Restoring Our Heritage”, complementing the 2025 ISCA national theme: “Imo G’adi” and “Security: The Bedrock of Oga n’Ihu Ndi Imo.”

Lady Obaji explained that the women’s focus this year is on cultural preservation, inclusion, and youth development. “We are fostering cultural exchange and innovation, and we’re committed to making Imo a more successful and unified society,” she said.

As part of these efforts, the committee continues to organize annual workshops for Nigerian-American youths, offering Igbo language lessons and cultural education. Mothers are also encouraged to speak the native language at home to maintain strong cultural roots.

A highlight of the convention will be the annual “Opara Imo/Ada Imo” Beauty Pageant, where young Imolite women between the ages of 18 and 25 showcase their talents, cultural knowledge, and commitment to community values.

The ISCA Women Committee is working tirelessly to ensure this year’s convention is the most successful yet. Lady Obaji praised the contributions of ISCA’s National First Lady, Chief Mrs. Ngozi Ekeigwe, for her proactive leadership and coordination with the national executive, led by Chief Frank Ekeigwe.

Obaji concluded with optimism: “We believe this year’s convention will surpass all expectations.

“We wish all our guests a safe journey to Atlanta as we come together to celebrate our heritage, empower our communities, and shape a stronger future for Imolites everywhere.”

 Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H