By Anthony Awunor

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When the Ubulu Ezemu Awards Planning Committee submitted Mr Collins Nwaka as one of the nominees, I decided not to interfere.

As an investigative journalist, I went to town to know who this young man is. The responses I got stunned me.

First, I was told that he had spent most part of his life in the United States of America. That he only came back for the love he has for his indigenous people.

After my local research, I was left with the fact that Mr Nwaka has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to his community and Ubulu Uku as a whole. 

Little wonder, he was given a street (Collinsville Street) right in his domain at the suburb of Isho Quarters in Idumu Idu, Ubulu Uku.

In addition, it is on record that Mr Collins Nwaka takes it upon himself to provide exceptional support and services to youth empowerment and discerns their immediate needs without any attachment.

The Ubulu Ezemu award recipient has therefore, bridged the gap of industrialization through the building of the first Rice Factory to mill rice in a modern way.

Already the rice factory has created job opportunities for over 20 youths across the community, a situation that has fostered youth empowerment through provision of employment to help families financially.

Another beautiful thing about this gentleman is his quest to volunteer in communal activities and other civic duties.

In a very short time, Nwaka was able to acclimatise in his local environment, and is already finding new ways to work with past, current and future leaders of the Ubulu clan.

His skills, knowledge and willingness to help others and dedication makes him a role model and perfect for the award of excellence. 

Ubulu-Uku people abroad should borrow a leaf from Nwaka’s giant strides, because at the end of the day, home is the sweetest.