By: Ijeoma Sandra, Nnewi.
Catholic Women Organization (CWO) Recognises Ikebunwa for His Commitment to Speaking Up for the Vulnerable and Supporting Community Development
Recognition continues to trail the public service and community-oriented activities of Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna, as the Catholic Women Organization (C.W.O.) of Saint Martin de Porres Catholic Church, Umudim, Nnewi, honoured him with an award as “The Voice of the Voiceless.” The award, presented on August 7, 2026, and received yesterday by Amb. Ikebunwa, represents another recognition of his growing profile in philanthropy, human capital development and community service.
Presented by the C.W.O. of St. Martin de Porres, the award plaque identifies Ikebunwa as the recipient and celebrates him specifically as “The Voice of the Voiceless,” highlighting his commitment to supporting the downtrodden and empowering the poor. The phrase “Voice of the Voiceless” carries a strong social meaning. It speaks to the importance of giving attention to people whose concerns may otherwise go unheard and supporting those who require assistance and opportunity.
In recent times, Ikebunwa has been associated with initiatives involving scholarships, support for startups and businesses, youth empowerment and assistance to vulnerable members of society. His interventions have extended to communities within Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo, as well as other parts of Anambra State. Through educational support, assistance to entrepreneurs and interventions targeted at vulnerable individuals, his activities have placed emphasis on creating opportunities and helping people improve their circumstances.
A scholarship can provide a young person with the opportunity to remain in school. Support for a small business can help an entrepreneur sustain a livelihood. Assistance to a vulnerable person or family can provide relief at a critical moment. It is through such interventions that the human side of development becomes visible.
This award comes in a year in which Ikebunwa has received other notable recognition. On September 26, 2026, the Federal Polytechnic Oko Alumni Association honoured him with the Polytechnic Star Award and inducted him into the Oko Polymath Hall of Fame during the association’s 40th anniversary celebration.
This C.W.O. award, however, carries a different emphasis, one centred on his relationship with people and his willingness to identify with those in need of support. Amb. Ikebunwa’s journey has taken him through engineering, entrepreneurship, education, real estate, politics and philanthropy. He previously contested the House of Representatives primaries for the Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency under the platform of the NDC.
Following that political experience, he has continued to channel considerable attention towards human capital and community development through scholarships, business support and assistance to vulnerable people. This latest recognition suggests that beyond political participation and professional accomplishments, his activities in the community are also becoming an important part of his public identity.
For Ikebunwa, being recognised as “The Voice of the Voiceless” places emphasis on a responsibility that extends beyond the plaque. It is a reminder that leadership can also be expressed through compassion, advocacy, empowerment and service to people.
Presented by the Catholic Women Organization of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, Umudim, Nnewi, the award has now become another chapter in Ikebunwa’s evolving story of community engagement.
