The Abia State Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Mr. Matthew Ekwuruibe, says his ministry will continue to partner relevant organizations in driving home the policies and programs of the Governor Alex Otti led administration in Abia State.
Mr Ekwuruibe who stated this in Umuahia when he received the Miss Diaspora Nigeria, USA 2024 Top Model, First Runner-Up, and Best Cultural Costume winner, Miss Ugonma Ogbonnaya, who paid him a familiarization visit in his office, congratulated Miss Ogbonnaya who is an indigene of Abiriba in Ohafia LGA for her exceptional achievements on the international stage.
The Commissioner while highlighting the importance of promoting the state’s culture and fostering talent among the youths, noted that Miss Ogbonnaya’s standout moment came when she won the Best Cultural Costume award, a testament to her pride in her heritage and her commitment to representing her roots on a global platform.
He applauded her on her accomplishments, pointing out that she has brought honor to Abia State and Nigeria as a whole. He also emphasized that her success exemplifies the talent and potential that exists within the state.
Mr Ekwuruibe reiterated his ministry’s resolve to partner Miss Ogbonnaya on future cultural initiatives, including programs that promote Abia’s rich cultural heritage and creative industries as well as other programs that are aimed at promoting the creative economy, celebrating the state’s culture, and providing opportunities for young people to excel in the arts.
Responding, the Miss Diaspora Nigeria, USA 2024 Top Model, First Runner-Up, and Best Cultural Costume winner, Miss Ugonma Ogbonnaya, thanked Governor Alex Otti and his wife, Mrs Priscilla Otti for the support and opportunity given to her to represent Abia on the international stage.
Miss Ogbonnaya explained that her vision is to use her platform to inspire young people, especially women, to embrace their heritage and pursue their dreams with confidence, pointing out that she has successfully completed a Medical outreach in Igbere in Bende Local Government Area days back.
She maintained that her passion to enlighten and empower the young generation remains one of the factors that motivated her participation in the model contest, adding that all she needs is a platform to reach out to the younger generation in line with the vision of the Governor’s wife, Mrs Otti to tackle Gender Base Violence (GBV).
Receiving Miss Ugonma Ogbonnaya in her office, the Wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs Priscilla Otti appreciated Miss Ogbonnaya for the positive steps she has taken so far and encouraged her not to lose focus for any reason.
Mrs Otti further assured her of Government’s readiness to collaborate with her in making positive contributions towards the betterment of young girls within and across the state.
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mrs Matilda Anyamele among other top government officials were present during the visit.
