By Anthony
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Attorney Dr. Charles Chibuike Onyirimba, the frontrunner Senatorial Candidate for Okigwe Zone (Imo North), has added another prestigious recognition to his growing list of honours as the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), Imo State Chapter, in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Imo State Council, conferred on him an Award of Excellence alongside five other distinguished personalities.
The colourful ceremony took place on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the Imo State University Auditorium, Owerri, during the annual conference jointly organised by the ACSPN, Imo State Chapter, and the NUJ, Imo State Council.
The conference attracted an impressive gathering of professors, academics, communication scholars, media professionals, journalists, and students from Imo State across Nigeria.
Beyond the presentation of awards, participants were treated to insightful scholarly lectures that explored contemporary issues in communication, journalism, media practice, and national development, making the event a rich blend of intellectual discourse and the celebration of excellence.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Prof. O.S.T. Ezechukwunyere Nwebo, while the second scholarly paper was presented by Prof. K.O. Nworgu. The conference was chaired by Prof. B.E.B. Woke, with the Vice-Chancellor of Imo State University, Prof. Uchefula Ugonna Chukwumaeze, serving as the Chief Host.
The star-studded event was graced by the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Her Excellency, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, as Special Guest. Also in attendance were the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Imo State Council, Comrade Ifeanyi Nwanguma; the Coordinator of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN), Imo State Chapter, Dr. (Mrs.) Adeline Nkwam-Uwaoma; eminent professors, media practitioners, communication experts, and other distinguished guests.
Speaking with Panorama News, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr. Eregbu Sylvie Marie, explained that Attorney Onyirimba’s nomination was initiated by journalists who had witnessed his remarkable philanthropy, humanitarian interventions, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of others.
“Attorney Onyirimba was nominated by journalists who have come across his good works and philanthropic gestures. This is an annual conference for scholars and journalists where we recognise people who have distinguished themselves in service to society. I do not know him personally, but many people testified about the awardees, including him,” she said.
Although the legal luminary was unavoidably absent due to official engagements overseas, he was represented by the Secretary-General of the Transformation Agenda Team, Chief JOJ Okoroafor, who delivered his goodwill message.
“I receive this honour with deep gratitude and humility,” Onyirimba stated. “This award is not only a recognition of my efforts but also a testament to the enduring role of responsible journalism in celebrating excellence, integrity, and selfless service.”
He commended journalists for their courage, professionalism, and dedication to truth, noting that their role has become even more critical in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly.
“Your work strengthens democracy, gives a voice to the voiceless, and inspires positive change. I encourage you never to compromise your professional ethics for convenience or personal gain. Continue to pursue the truth with fairness, accuracy, and courage. The future of our nation depends, in no small measure, on the strength, independence, and credibility of its media.”
Expressing heartfelt appreciation to the organisers and the journalists who found him worthy of the honour, Onyirimba dedicated the award to the people of Okigwe Zone, whom he aspires to represent in the Senate, and to all who believe that integrity, hard work, compassion, and selfless service remain the enduring pillars of purposeful leadership.
He concluded with a stirring charge to media practitioners:
“May your pens, microphones, cameras, and digital platforms continue to illuminate the path to a more just, informed, and prosperous society.”
The other award recipients were Mr. Ikenna Kennedy Odoeme, HC Mike Duru Ejiogu, Hon. Humphrey Ikeaka, Hon. Anusiem Oji James, and High Chief Sir P.M.C. Okeke.
