By Mary Ugorji
Stakeholders at the just concluded 2023 Mbaise Policy Roundtable (MPR) summit have called on both government and citizens of Nigeria to put more attention on education and agriculture in other to move the nation forward.
According to them, while education will equip the younger generation effectively take over the leadership of the country in future, agriculture will ensure food sufficiency.
The Chairman, MPR, Prof. Edward Oparaoji expressed satisfaction over the success of this year summit, which he said, is the third edition and explained that the objective of the group is to mobilize the people of Mbaise Nation positively. He further explained that this year theme is very strategic and called on the people of Mbaise and Nigerians at large not to toy with the issue of education and agriculture.
Prof. Oparaoji assured that MPR will continue to expand its tentacles in order to make impact on Mbaise people.
Also speaking, the vice Chairman of MPR, Dr. Law Osondu commended the chairman, Prof. Oparaoji for his relentless efforts in ensuring the sustainability of the summit and promised to continue to support and assist him always.
He expressed happiness over the choice of this year’s theme, ‘Education and Agriculture”.
Dr. Osondu, who based in the United States noted that most of the richest people in America and other parts of the world are famers and stressed the need for Nigerians, especially Mbaise people to hold on farming
He reiterated the intent of MPR to make Mbaise Nation the best among others.
Dr. Osondu also explained that MPR engages in public awareness and public information as well as helping people to acquire education, through Scholarships
He expressed optimism that the summit will make a positive impact on the people of Mbaise
Another prominent stakeholder who was present at the event, Gen. Lincon Ogunewe (Rtd) noted that insecurity is a great challenge to education and Agriculture
He, however, called for all hands on deck to tackle the menace, stressing that insecurity is everybody’s business.
Speaking further, Gen. Ogunewe Pointed out that investing in Agriculture amounts to investing in the future and building a strong future, not only for oneself but for all.
He therefore called on youths, especially, Mbaise youths to embrace education and agriculture to make Mbaise nation great
In a keynote speech, former Governor of Anambara State and Presidential candidate of the labour Party, Peter Obi, emphasized the importance of Education and Agriculture in the life of every nation
Obi, who was represented at the event by ,Director- General, Obi-Datti Campaign Organization, Imo State, Hon. Fabian Ihekwoeme , will occupy major areas in his administration, if elected President.
He also commended the organizers for the choice of the theme of summit.
Hon. Ihekwoeme also represented another Guest Speaker, Prof. Pat Utomi.
The Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Joseph Ahaneku, former Minister of foreign Affairs, Prof. Viola Onwuliri, Special Guest, Mr Frank Nneji and others also lent their voices, calling for serious attention on education and agriculture.
The event, which took place at Chris-V Hotel Mbaise, attracted people from all works of life.
