The World Bank Co-Task Team Leader of the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), Dr. Chidozie Anyiro, has received the Chieftaincy title of “Oke Nwa Ana Amụrụ Ọha.”
The Ikwuano-born, Abịa State native and renowned agricultural economist received the title on Monday September 2, 2024 at the palace of His Royal Highness, Igwe (Dr) Barr. Julius Nnaji, Odezuluigbo 3 of Nike Ancient Kingdom.
Presenting the title and certificate of office to him on behalf of the Traditional Rulers in Enugu East Senatorial District of Traditional Rulers, the Igwe of Iji Nike, His Royal Highness, Igwe Barr. Dr. Julius Nnaji, said Dr. Anyiro, through his passion for agriculture and philanthropy towards farmers, has impacted countless lives.
He noted that since Dr. Anyiro began working with the World Bank, he has consistently advocated for assistance to African farmers through numerous interventions, which have significantly advanced agricultural production in Africa and the Sub-Saharan region.
The monarch also commended Dr. Anyiro for his outstanding achievements, particularly with the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Project (L-PRES), and urged him to continue impacting lives for the betterment of humanity.
“On behalf of my people, I want to appreciate all that you have done and continue to do for humanity,” the monarch said. “We have been following your admirable strides and are very pleased with what you have accomplished. That is why we decided to make you one of us by bestowing upon you the title of ‘Oke Nwa Ana Amụrụ Ọha,’ which means a special child or son of the people.”
“From now henceforth, you are now ‘Oke Nwa Ana Amụrụ Ọha 1’, the monarch proclaimed, also presenting a certificate of titleship to Dr. Anyiro.
Reacting to this gesture, Dr. Chidozie Anyiro expressed his astonishment and gratitude for the honor, describing it as a call to do more for humanity. He assured everyone that he would continue to use his God-given office to positively impact lives.
Dr. Anyiro also took the opportunity to encourage all livestock farmers to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by L-PRES to maximize their businesses and output, adding that more interventions are on the way.
“We at L-PRES are committed to driving the agricultural sector forward by ensuring that farmers have access to the resources and support they need. This title serves as a reminder of the responsibility I hold, and I am more determined than ever to ensure that our initiatives reach and benefit every farmer, no matter their location. The future of agriculture in Africa is bright, and together, we can achieve remarkable growth and resilience in the sector,” Dr. Anyiro emphasized.
Reports also have it that Dr. Anyiro was instrumental in attracting the ongoing construction of a regional model veterinary hospital in Enugu, an edifice that will solve many problems facing livestock farming in the Southeast region and also boost its productivity in the state.
The event was also attended by the Traditional Ruler of Amorji Nike, His Royal Highness, Igwe Titus Okolo; the Traditional Ruler of Amechi Idodo, His Royal Highness, Igwe Hyacent Edeani; and the Traditional Ruler of Mbuluowo, His Royal Highness, Igwe Godwin Okeke Arum, among others.
