It was a day of joy, celebration, and goodwill on Friday, January 2, 2026, as Chief (Mrs.) Nkem Okwuofu, widely regarded as a political mother and grassroots leader, shared love and support with the people of the Obomkpa community in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The New Year gathering, which has become an annual tradition, brought together youths, women, elders, political leaders, and community members who came out in large numbers to celebrate with her. Food items and other essentials were shared as residents marked the Christmas and New Year festivities together.
Speaking at the event, Chief Okwuofu said her decision to return home and celebrate with her people was inspired by gratitude and a desire to appreciate those who have stood by her throughout her political journey. She likened the outreach to the biblical story of Jesus feeding the multitude, noting that even little gestures, when done with love, can bring joy to many.
According to her, the people of Obomkpa have remained loyal and steadfast over the years, always supporting her vision and standing with her wherever she goes. She described the gathering as her own way of saying thank you through food, fellowship, and small tokens of appreciation.
Reflecting on her political journey, Chief Okwuofu said she wants to be remembered for truth, mentorship, and service. She noted that while speaking the truth in politics can be challenging, it remains a legacy worth keeping. She added that mentoring young people and preparing them for leadership has been a key part of her work, urging youths to remain honest, hardworking, loyal, and committed to their beliefs.
As the state moves into a new political cycle, she advised her supporters not to be distracted by political distractions or party movements, stressing that development projects such as roads, schools, and health centres already speak for themselves. She urged the people to remain truthful, trustworthy, and steadfast, while continuing to support one another.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government Area, Hon. Clara Nneka Dibia, described Chief Okwuofu as a true grassroots leader who has consistently shown love to her people. She congratulated the community on the New Year and encouraged residents to remain prayerful, united, and hopeful.
Hon. Dibia also reminded residents that 2026 is an election year, urging those who have not yet done so to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). She described the PVC as a powerful tool that enables citizens to choose leaders who will represent their interests and bring development to their communities.
The Youth President of Obomkpa, Comrade Kurue Nzemeke Aslem, expressed deep appreciation to Chief Okwuofu for her continuous support of the youths and the wider community. He recalled that during the Christmas period, she provided several items, including a full cow, which enabled the youths to celebrate. He also praised her for supporting widows, widowers, and the less privileged.
According to him, Chief Okwuofu has made significant contributions to human development in Obomkpa, including facilitating employment for about 40 youths, supporting the recruitment of teaching and non-teaching staff, and contributing to infrastructure projects such as road construction. He appealed to her to continue supporting youth empowerment and community development initiatives.
The President of the Delta Youth Transformation Movement (DYTM), Comrade Malekwe Odozi Isioma, also commended Chief Okwuofu for her inclusive leadership style. He described her as a role model who deliberately ensures that everyone—youths, women, men, and the elderly—is carried along in her outreach activities. He called on other leaders across Delta State to emulate her example of selfless service and community engagement.
Adding his voice, Mr Afambu Ifeanyi Eze, an elder and farmer in Obomkpa, said the New Year celebration has become a familiar tradition under Chief Okwuofu’s leadership. He thanked her for consistently remembering her people and prayed for God to grant her long life, good health, and prosperity.
The event ended with prayers, goodwill messages, and renewed commitments by community members to unity, peace, and development, as residents described the gathering as a strong reminder of the importance of grassroots leadership and community solidarity.
