By: Ijeoma Sandra, Nnewi.

It was celebration galore recently at Asaba Delta State when the Chybee Entrepreneurship Foundation For Women And Youths honoured some Eminently Nigerians and Youths as part of the activities marking the African Festival of Cultures and Empowerment (AFCE).

 Apart from the Awards, the occasion also featured Fashion Exhibition, and Grant Presentation. Over 50 Participants Benefitted from the Grant in  the sum of #100,000 each.

 Among those honoured by the Chybee Foundation were:  the Desert Warrior, Chief Dr. Newton Jibunoh OON. He bagged the Iconic Cultural Influence Award.

Dr. Jibunoh is the Founder of Nigeria’s foremost Environmental Non-Governmental Organization, Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE). He is also the Chairman of Nelson Mandela Gardens, a Conservative Resort in Asaba, Delta State and Managing-Director/ Chief Executive Officer of Costain (West Africa) Plc. until retirement.

Also honoured was Senator Ede Dafinone the Senator,  representing Delta Central Senatorial District in the 10th Senate. He was honoured with the Distinguished Leadership Award. He is a distinguished Nigerian Public Servant, Financial Expert and Legislator. He has a strong background in Finance and Corporate Governance and has built a reputation for professionalism, integrity and strategic leadership in both the private and public sectors. 

His transition into politics reflects a deep commitment to service, effective representation and the advancement of democratic governance. As a Senator, he is dedicated to promoting policies that drive economic growth, strengthen institutions and improve the welfare of his constituents. His leadership continues to inspire confidence in governance and contribute meaningfully to National development.

Hon. Chief Faith Majemite is a Delta State Politician and grassroot leader from Ethiope East LGA. She is the former Chairman of Ethiope East Council and the first woman to occupy that seat. She also served as the former Special Adviser on Mobilisation in Delta State where she focused on empowering women and strengthening Party Structures at the grassroots. She is known for her service to humanity, good leadership style and ability to connect with people across communities. She hails from Kokori. She is a Holder of a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration. She is also a great Philanthropist, who has added value to the lives of many youths and women across the state. 

Another Awardee was Mr. James Orivri, who is the Founder/CEO of FENNORICA Oy based in Finland. He is also the Architect and Project Manager of DARE Program. James Orivri has a strong background in Manufacturing, Digital Systems and Large Scale Project Delivery. He is also capable of turning complex ideas into practical structures that actually works.

He has led everything from precision manufacturing lines to multi-country development projects and now channels that experience into building DARE’s digital foundation. James is known for his calm leadership, sharp technical instinct and ability to bring order where others see chaos. If there’s a system to be built, he’s already sketching it. He bagged the Distinguished International Partners Award.

 Also Awarded is Sanna Vihersaari also from Finland. She is the Communication Lead of FENNORICA and Coordination Lead at DARE Program. She’s the voice of clarity and the spark behind FENNORICA’s Communication and DARE’s Program’s Coordination. With experience from International Corporations, she brings a rare mix of digital fluency,story telling skills and people – first communication. She keeps team aligned, message sharp and stakeholders genuinely engaged often with a smile and occasional well timed jokes. If something needs to be explained clearly (or beautifully), Sanna is the one you want in the room. 

 HRM Prince Uche Ezeokafor is the Regent Eze- Uzo 1 Ikem Ivite – Nando. He is a distinguished Royal Figure, Visionary Leader and Custodian of Tradition whose regency reflects a deep commitment and progressive leadership.

As Regent of Ikem Ivite Nando, he embodies the value of integrity, wisdom and service; providing purposeful leadership during critical period in the kingdom’s history. His role is marked by a balanced approach that upholds ancestral heritage, while embracing modern development, fostering unity, peace and sustainable growth within the community.

Renowned for his humility, , strategic insight, and dedication to the welfare of his people, HRM Prince Uche Ezeokafor has continued to champion Initiatives that promote cultural identity,youth empowerment and social cohesion. His leadership serves as a bridge between tradition and transformation; inspiring confidence and progress cross generations. A respected voice within and beyond his domain, he remains committed to strengthening community structures, preserving indigenous values and advancing meaningful development that reflects both heritage and vision. He bagged the Royal Ambassador Of Culture Award.

The Humanitarian Impact Award went to Rev. Dr Austin Ifeanyichukwu Epunam JP (Atu Nnewi) from the Epunam — Ukatu,– Ezeoginne Royal Family of Otolo Nnewi Anambra State.

 He is a respected Humanitarian, Clergy and CEO of Sweethome Africa Humanitarian Foundation which he founded in Hamburg Germany to counsel Africans properly plan their traveling and living abroad. He is also dedicated to empowering vulnerable communities and driving sustainable development initiatives.

Through his Impactful Outreach Programs, he has supported widows,youths and the underprivileged, demonstrating a deep commitment to service and societal reforms. Dr. Epunam is also the Publisher of Sweethome News-Magazine where he promotes inspiring stories, cultures and positive narratives that foster growth and development across Africa.

Through his Foundation which collaborates with the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission, he has airlifted over 100 Nigerians to the Holy Land of Israel without a single Absconder.