In recognition of his support and love, Ohaneze Ndigbo and Igbo Traders Association in Ekiti State have conferred the title ‘Nwanne di na mba of Igboland’ (Brother who takes care of us in the diaspora) on Governor Ayodele Fayose.
Fayose’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Idowu Adelusi said the award was apt as it came when the governor marked the first year of his second term in office.
Speaking on the occasion, President of Ohaneze Ndigbo in Ekiti State, Prince Nathaniel Uzoma, said his people were appreciative of the love and support of the governor for them. He added that he was happy to learn that the governor even gave one of his sons an Igbo name Chukwuemeka. Uzoma also commended the governor for appointing an Igbo man into the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board.
In his acceptance, Fayose said Igbo were a peculiar people and commended their industrious nature. He recalled that as a businessman, he had a lot of interactions with Igbo people and learnt a lot from them.
“Very close to my business premises in Ibadan in those days was an Igbo trader who had two apprentices named Chukwu and Emeka. I loved their sense of dedication and industry. I loved them so much that when I had a baby boy then, I decided to name him after the boys…” said Fayose. (Daily Sun)