By Eki David Greg
UGHELLI, DELTA STATE — The Democratic Delta Youth Movement (DDYM) on Thursday honoured two prominent clerics, Rev. Anthony Ogugu and Rev. John Ogheneovo, at a well-attended ceremony in Ughelli, drawing a cross-section of political, religious, and business leaders from across the state.The event attracted captains of industry, political leaders, business executives, church leaders, and traditional chiefs from across Delta State.
‘REVIVER OF HOPE’ AWARD FOR OGUGU
Rev. Anthony Ogugu, an aspirant for the Delta State House of Assembly, Ughelli North Constituency 2, and Agbarho born philanthropist and respected Reverend, received the “Reviver of Hope and Inspiration to the Youth in Agbarho, Ughelli and Delta State” award.
Speaking with journalists afterwards, Ogugu said he was surprised by the recognition.
“I was very surprised when the invitation came. I thank God for everything,” he said. “This award will spur me to do more for the good people of Agbarho, Ughelli, Uwheru, and Delta State at large.”
Guests described Ogugu as a community leader whose work spans both ministry and grassroots development.
OGHENEOVO NAMED ‘BACKBONE OF OGUGU MOVEMENT’
Rev. John Ogheneovo, General Coordinator of the Rev. Anthony Ogugu Team, was honoured as “Backbone of Ogugu Movement and a Trusted Partner.”
Ogheneovo thanked Rev. Ogugu for the opportunity to serve.
“Many good things have come my way since I met Rev. Ogugu over three decades ago,” he said. “I pray for God’s protection and continuous blessings upon his life and household.”
He also commended DDYM and its Convener, Amb. Eki David Greg, popularly known as MKO, for the honour. Ogheneovo said constituents should expect improved representation with Ogugu in the Delta State House of Assembly come 2027, and urged supporters to back him with prayers and support.
DDYM: AWARDS BASED ON TRACK RECORD
DDYM Convener Amb. Eki David Greg said the awards were based on verifiable track records.
“We honour people based on their antecedents and track records,” Eki said. “Rev. Ogugu’s work for the people of Agbarho, Ughelli, and Delta State motivated us to honour him.”
He encouraged other Deltans to emulate Ogugu by reaching out to the less privileged.
The ceremony closed with goodwill messages from guests who noted that recognising selfless service promotes civic engagement across the state.
The event, held at Oil City Hotel, brought together captains of industry, political figures, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders, reflecting the significance attached to the recognition of individuals described by organisers as contributors to community development and youth empowerment.
Rev. Ogugu, a philanthropist and aspirant for the Delta State House of Assembly representing Ughelli North Constituency 2, was presented with the “Reviver of Hope and Inspiration to the Youth in Agbarho, Ughelli and Delta State” award. The Agbarho-born cleric was recognised for what organisers described as his sustained commitment to grassroots development, humanitarian outreach, and youth-focused initiatives.
Speaking with journalists shortly after receiving the award, Ogugu expressed gratitude and surprise at the recognition, noting that the honour would motivate him to intensify his service to the community. He attributed the recognition to divine grace and pledged to continue working for the welfare of people in Agbarho, Ughelli, Uwheru, and Delta State at large.
“I was very surprised when the invitation came. I thank God for everything,” he said. “This award will spur me to do more for the good people of Agbarho, Ughelli, Uwheru, and Delta State.”
Several attendees described Ogugu as a community leader whose influence extends beyond the pulpit into social development and grassroots mobilisation. They noted that his engagement with young people and support for vulnerable groups have earned him widespread respect within and outside his constituency.
Also honoured at the ceremony was Rev. John Ogheneovo, who serves as General Coordinator of the Rev. Anthony Ogugu Team. He received the “Backbone of Ogugu Movement and a Trusted Partner” award in recognition of his longstanding role in supporting Ogugu’s initiatives and political aspirations.
In his remarks, Ogheneovo expressed appreciation for the honour and reflected on his longstanding relationship with Ogugu, which he said spans over three decades. He credited the cleric for positively influencing his life and enabling him to contribute meaningfully to community development efforts.
“Many good things have come my way since I met Rev. Ogugu over three decades ago,” he said, while also offering prayers for continued protection and blessings upon Ogugu and his family.
Ogheneovo further commended DDYM and its convener, Amb. Eki David Greg, popularly known as MKO, for recognising individuals based on merit and service. He expressed optimism that Ogugu’s potential election into the Delta State House of Assembly in 2027 would bring improved representation and development to the constituency, urging supporters to remain steadfast in their backing.
Speaking at the event, Eki David Greg reiterated that the awards were based on careful assessment of recipients’ track records and contributions to society. He emphasised that DDYM’s mission includes identifying and celebrating individuals who have demonstrated consistent commitment to community development and youth empowerment.
“We honour people based on their antecedents and track records,” he said. “Rev. Ogugu’s work for the people of Agbarho, Ughelli, and Delta State motivated us to honour him.”
He also called on other well-meaning individuals in Delta State to emulate such examples by extending support to the less privileged and investing in initiatives that uplift communities.
The ceremony concluded with goodwill messages from dignitaries, many of whom underscored the importance of recognising acts of service and leadership at the grassroots level. They noted that such recognition not only rewards individuals but also encourages a culture of civic responsibility and active participation in community development.
Observers say events like these reflect a growing trend among youth and civic organisations to spotlight local leadership and inspire broader engagement in governance and social progress across Delta State.
