Okahiuga Alike Ancient Kingdom in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, has honoured the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Nsima Ekere, with the traditional title of “Ome Nke Ahuru Anya” (he whose great deeds are evident to all).

The community’s traditional ruler, His Royal Majesty, Eze Innocent Adiele Nwaigwe, conferred Ekere with the title.

Eze Nwaigwe said the honour was in recognition of “Ekere’s long-standing commitment towards uplifting of mankind and developing of society”.

He added: “What you are doing to make your commission better prepared to serve the people of the Niger Delta Region has reached us. We recognise them. We recognise and commend you. The people of the Niger Delta need a leader like you, someone who cares about their affairs, who cares about their development. I want to reassure you today that my people are behind you.

“We will continue to support you to succeed because your success will bring more development to my people, your people in Akwa Ibom and the Niger Delta.”

Ekere said it was heart-warming for him “to see that one’s modest efforts are recognised. I believe there is so much more that awaits us, working as partners with a shared love for and commitment to impacting more positively on the well-being of the Niger Delta region and our people”.