- Chief Daniel Onyia being decorated by one of the elders of ANIAS
Titus Eleweke South East Editor
AWKA, Anambra – The Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State (ANIAS) at the weekend inducted an Ebonyi-born businessman, Chief Daniel Onyia, into its prestigious Elders Council in recognition of his outstanding contributions to peace, unity, and the welfare of non-indigenes living and conducting business in Anambra State.
The induction ceremony, which also served as a recognition of his consistent support for harmony between non-indigenes and host communities, was held at Chief Onyia’s residence in Asaba, Delta State.
The event attracted ANIAS elders, executive members, leaders of various traders’ associations, and other key stakeholders of the organisation.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Legal Adviser of ANIAS, Barrister Emmanuel Okafor, described the association as an umbrella body representing all non-indigenes residing, trading, or otherwise connected to Anambra State.
He noted that ANIAS plays a critical role in fostering unity, protecting the interests of its members, and promoting peaceful coexistence with host communities.
Barr. Okafor commended Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for his inclusive and transformative approach to governance, stating that both indigenes and non-indigenes were benefiting from the administration’s policies, particularly in the areas of education, infrastructure development, and security.
He further pledged the association’s loyalty and maximum cooperation to the state government to ensure the success of the current administration.
According to him, ANIAS is also actively engaged in addressing social vices among its members and contributing to a more orderly society.
In his welcome address, ANIAS President, Prince Chigozie Nweke, explained that Chief Onyia’s induction followed recommendations from the Ebonyi community in Onitsha, where the businessman has been widely acknowledged for his generosity, leadership, and unwavering support.
He noted that the association travelled to Asaba to honour him in recognition of his place of residence.
Prince Nweke added that the honour aligns with Anambra State’s development vision, particularly in the education sector.
He noted ANIAS’ commitment to supporting vulnerable non-indigenes by taking children off the streets, enrolling them in schools, and promoting access to quality education as a pathway to sustainable development.
Responding, Chief Daniel Onyia, a trader at the Onitsha Main Market, expressed deep gratitude to ANIAS for the recognition, describing the honour as both a moment of joy and a call to greater responsibility.
He pledged his continued support for the association and reaffirmed his commitment to policies and initiatives that promote peace, development, and harmonious coexistence in Anambra State.
Chief Onyia also praised Governor Soludo’s administration for its visible impact, particularly in road infrastructure development and the transformation of previously neglected areas such as Okpoko, which he said had significantly improved economic activities and living conditions.
In a goodwill message, the Traditional Prime Minister of Isuaniocha in Awka North Local Government Area, High Chief Charles Okoye, described the induction as well deserved, citing Chief Onyia’s exemplary character, humility, and strong community spirit.
He applauded the state government’s achievements in roads, education, and security, and urged ANIAS to sustain its good works while maintaining cordial relations with constituted authorities.
Similarly, the Secretary-General of the Anambra State Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), Chief Macaulay Ekwe, observed that the Soludo administration does not discriminate against non-indigenes, pointing to employment opportunities offered to qualified and competent non-indigenes within the state.
He described Chief Onyia as industrious and worthy of the honour, highlighting his empowerment initiatives and encouragement of entrepreneurship among traders.
The event reaffirmed ANIAS’ commitment to inclusiveness, peaceful coexistence, and collective responsibility, underscoring the vital role of non-indigenes in the socio-economic development of Anambra State.
