Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia
The people of Bende Local Government of Abia State are in expectant mood as they prepare to host President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and House of Representatives Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas on Friday.
Tinubu and other high calibre political leaders are expected to be in Bende for the formal unveiling of the Peace in the South East Project (PISE-P) and the grand reception for the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu.
A press release signed by the Chairperson, media and communications committee of the twin events, Mrs. Mary Kanu said that Mr. President and the leaders of the National Assembly were “among the distinguished guests” that would be in Bende.
She also listed the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, and the governors of the South East states to be among the high profile guests whose presence have been confirmed.
Also confirmed to grace the event are the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Highness, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, His Royal Highness, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; business tycoons, Aliko Dangote and Chief Arthur Eze as well as federal and state legislators.
Mrs. Kanu stated that the high octane event “is being organised by the Peace in Southeast Project in conjunction with the people of Bende Local government of Abia State, the constituency of the Deputy Speaker”.
She explained that the home coming reception for Kanu was “organised in appreciation of the unwavering commitment of the Deputy Speaker to public service and outstanding contributions to the people of the Southeast region and the nation in general”.
“The PISE-P team and his community take immense pride in the remarkable achievements and tireless efforts of the Deputy Speaker who has consistently demonstrated a profound dedication to the well-being and progress of our people”.
The media committee chairperson noted that Kanu, has since his emergence as House Deputy Speaker, continued to play pivotal roles in shaping policies that address the needs and aspirations of the people”.
She said that the unveiling of PISE-P would mark the formal declaration of Peace in the Southeast as well as kickstart the implementation of the project.
According to Kanu, “the project aims to end not only insecurity in the (Southeast) region through dialogue with the combatants and key stakeholders but also set in motion the rebuilding of Southeast.”
The rebuilding process would be carried out “using the eight pillars of the project as tools for recovery, reconstruction, and regeneration of the economy and socio-political life of the people of the zone being ravaged by the crises”.
The pillars that would also serve as vehicles for empowering and reintegrating the armed youths include agriculture, education, leadership and good governance, sports and entertainment, culture and tourism, among others.
