MARY Ikoku, Nigeria’s foremost development and public relations expert, has been awarded the prestigious ‘Ugwu Igbo 1’ chieftaincy title by Dr. Amb. Chukwudi J Ihenetu, the Eze Ndigbo Ghana, in recognition of her outstanding contributions and accomplishments in good governance and democracy advocacy.
The honour celebrates Mary Ikoku’s exceptional integrity and leadership qualities, which she has demonstrated throughout her extensive career. It also acknowledges her unwavering commitment to humanity and her notable role as a prominent voice from the South East region that defended democracy during the 2023 elections.
Mary Ikoku’s involvement in the 2023 political landscape was significant, serving as the Assistant Director of Protocol & Events for the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council and as the Deputy Chairman of the APC Women Presidential Campaign team.
The investiture took place during the 11th Igbo Day & New Yam Festival on September 17 at the picturesque Efua Sutherland Park, situated opposite the National Theatre in Ghana.
Dr. Amb. Chukwudi J Ihenetu, while bestowing this prestigious honor, commended Mary Ikoku’s exemplary leadership and her pioneering efforts in the service of humanity. He emphasized her exceptional standing among her peers.
In response to the recognition, Ikoku expressed her pleasant surprise and gratitude, viewing it as a testament to her contributions not only to the advancement of the human race but also to democracy in Africa’s most populous nation, Nigeria.
Mary Ikoku is a versatile development and policy expert with a specialization in strategy and communications. She has played a pivotal role in advancing various developmental initiatives in Nigeria, particularly focusing on the welfare of women, children, vulnerable populations, and the displaced, as well as actively contributing to policy formulation and execution.
Acknowledging the honor, Mary Ikoku expressed her commitment to the principle that with great recognition comes great responsibility. She pledged to continue her efforts to protect women and children from abuse and combat the issue of baby factories in the South-East and across the country.
Notably, Mary Ikoku was also an aspirant for the House of Representatives, Arochukwu-Ohafia Federal Constituency, under the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the previous general elections.
The event witnessed the recognition of other distinguished individuals, including Chief Mrs. Ginika Tor, the Federal Commissioner representing Enugu state in the Federal Character Commission (FCC) who received the title ‘Ugogbuzuo Ochakee 1’ of Ndigbo Ghana.
Dignitaries from Nigeria who attended the ceremony included Hon. Ugonna Ozuruigbo (OZB), House of Representatives Member representing Isu/Njaba/Nwangele/Nkwerre federal constituency, PDP, and Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, representing Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency, PDP, among many others.
