The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, has recognized Ambassador John Metchie, the President General (PG) of the Umueri Community in Anambra State, as the ‘Best President General’ for the year 2023. This honor was conferred in recognition of Metchie’s efforts in promoting peace, security, and development in the Umueri Community and its environs.
Ambassador John Metchie, who is currently in Germany attending a United Nations program on world peace with his wife Lolo Linda Metchie, assumed the role of President General of the Umueri Community in Anambra State in 2022.
The award was presented during the inauguration of the new executive of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Anambra East Local Government Area chapter, at the secretariat of Anambra East Local Government Area.
Dr. Marcel Molokwu, Chairman of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Anambra East Local Government Area chapter, cited several achievements of Ambassador Metchie during his tenure as Umueri PG. These achievements included drawing attention to the community at the state, national, and international levels, enhancing security in Umueri and its surroundings, and initiating various development projects, such as market construction, road improvement, and culvert construction.
Molokwu also noted that Metchie’s leadership had ushered in a period of peace in the relationship between Umueri and its neighboring communities, including Aguleri. He highlighted the role of Metchie in attracting projects to Umueri from the administration of Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, including the renovation and equipping of Umueri General Hospital and the presence of international agencies such as UNESCO and the Red Cross during national flood disasters.
Molokwu commended Metchie for his commitment to empowering women, youths, widows, orphans, and other community members, as well as for his Light-Up Umueri project, which provided solar power to over 150 households. He also acknowledged Metchie’s inclusive administration in the community.
The award ceremony was attended by traditional rulers from various towns across Anambra East and other parts of the state. Ambassador Metchie received the honor as a shining example and a source of inspiration.
In response to the recognition, Ambassador Metchie expressed gratitude to Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide and considered it a challenge and motivation to continue working diligently for the benefit of Umueri, Anambra State, and humanity at large. He currently holds key positions in other organizations, including Prime Minister of the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) and Deputy Commander General (DCG) of the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) responsible for Technical Service.
