Egemba
Imo State Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, Hon. Barr. Jerry Egemba, has identified with an illustrious son of the state, a former Special Adviser to the State Government on Culture and Tourism, Ndaa Paddy Obinna, on his 81st Birth Day Celebration, describing him as a man of grace, blessed with sound health at old age and a living legend in the field of Arts, Culture and Tourism.
Speaking during the Birth Day Celebration of Ndaa Paddy Obinna at his Emekuku residence, Commissioner Egemba, who viewed the celebrant as an epitome of arts and an institution in the field of Arts suggested there is obvious need to tap from his wealth of knowledge with a student teacher relationship.
His words; What is inside of you we must find a way to bring it out for people to tap from the big reservoir of knowledge and talent in you. One good thing about you is that you are generous , you are not like some of those ones that held back knowledge, you have wealth of knowledge, I am completely satisfied with what I saw inside your Art Gallery , I want to encourage you to keep on, you have standout as a shining example, you are someone we can trust.
Do not mind the fact that we have not done so much to encourage or motivate you as you serve the general public , we are here to celebrate you at 81 and appreciate you for benefiting from your services.
Our coming was unanimously agreed by all the Heads Of Departments, Directors Permanent Secretaries and all who has one leadership position or the other in the ministry, what you have done to bring out arts, culture and hospitality by virtue of your works and past positions in government is second to none and you are still not relenting, I am humbled".
Explaining, the stand of Imo State Govenor, Senator Hope Uzodimma on Culture, Arts and Tourism at the event, the commissioner described him as a visionary leader with irreversible commitment to Tourism , Hospitality, Arts and Culture.
Barr. Egemba disclosed that the Shared Prosperity Administration of Imo State Govenor, Senator Uzodimma has great plans for cultural revival, growth and development of the Arts, Hospitality and Tourism sector and practical steps have started for effective actualization.
He noted that Governor Uzodimma my be busy with so many things, calling for attention and solution but that doesn't mean he is not thinking about cultural revival, the development of Arts and Culture to give it a facelift.
The Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, disclosed top plans of the Ministry to hold Ozuruimo Cultural Festival, he maintained that such event with huge positive effect on Igbo culture and tradition cannot hold without active participation and guideline from Ndaa Paddy Obinna.
Responding to an earlier request made By Ndaa Paddy Obinna, on Imo Hall of Fame and understanding for collaboration between Paddy Obinna Gallery, commissioner Egembe assured of maximum support from the ministry, hinting that the governor has already indicated special interest in the collaboration.
Egemba said; "we need collaboration with the gallery, we are visiting for the growth of the Tourism in Imo State, let's work together, whatsoever you can help me do and I can help you do, let's not hesitate in doing that.
My mind is working concerning our relationship and collaboration , certainly; I will deepen our understanding with you . By next week, find a convenient time, come to my office, let's reason together. In our meeting define your role, clearly state what it should be.
On the Imo Hall of Fame you mentioned , whatsoever we must do, certainly; you will be integrated into it, we are thinking of what to do with Tourism in that area, I know you have a lot of ideas. I am happy to announce to you that I am not disappointed in your active roles".
Adding his voice; the Permanent Secretary, Mr T.U.C Nwokonkwo who confirmed the govenor's commitment to arts, tourism and cultural revival, recalled how he made a presentation on the Hall of Fame during EXCO Meeting, the governor quickly noted Ndaa Paddy Obinna has wonderful ideas about Imo Hall of Fame and quickly recommended, he should get in touch with him as soon as possible. the permanent secretary noted that on same day, a fellow Permanent Secretary also made a similar and strong presentation on Imo Hall Fall Fame which also pleased the governor."
His words; "Ndaa Paddy has been a great hand and an Icon in Arts and Culture, He has served in several positions in government, As Special Adviser on Culture and Arts with impressive Capacity, ingenuity and accountability.
We are pleased to designate his gallery as a tourist center in Imo State with the Federal Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy as one of the Prime Tourist Centers in Imo State, he is someone we trust his capacity.
Speaking at the event, the celebrant, Ndaa Paddy, made a passionate appeal for Imo Hall of Fame and the Annex to be converted into a Museum and Art Gallery, in order to give meaning to the moulded images of past heroes, staying; all the buildings are useless including the presidential lodge, if that place is not converted into museum and Art Galary, I have been shouting to put that place into use, not when I die it will called Paddy Obinna Art Gallery, let's put it into best use now am alive for the benefit of the society".
He appreciated the Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Creative Arts, Hon.Barr. Egemba, the Permanent Secretary , Heads of Departments and Directors who stormed his place to celebrate with him on his 81st Birth day and wished them well .