A 24-year-old gift restored to life. Now, a multipurpose hub for meetings, weddings, conferences, and community progress.
Originally built and donated 24 years ago by Orimili Atata Jerry Nwakobi, the hall had deteriorated over time, prompting concern and action. After receiving troubling video updates from the village, Engr. Nwakobi was moved to act. What began as concern quickly became a mission: to restore a cultural landmark that serves as the beating heart of community life in Ifite Nteje.
Today, the revitalized hall is a fully modern, multipurpose facility capable of hosting village meetings, weddings, conferences, and other events. Local labor was prioritized throughout the project, creating employment opportunities and reinforcing community ownership. Despite coordinating the renovation from abroad, Engr. Nwakobi maintained consistent communication with trusted village coordinators to ensure success. A management committee has been established to oversee operations and maintenance, ensuring that the hall remains a sustainable community asset. The response from villagers has been overwhelmingly positive—many view the hall not only as a physical upgrade but as a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and renewed hope.
Inspired by the outcome, Engr. Nwakobi has expressed interest in undertaking more development projects in Ifite Nteje. Below is an excerpt from his interview with Stadt Newspaper: Stadt Interview with Engr. Osita Nwakobi (Mazi Asikabulu)
Stadt: What inspired you to take on the renovation of the Akamanato Village Hall?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: It happened unexpectedly. My brother, Ozor Obalum, often sends me WhatsApp videos updating me on village affairs. One day, I saw the condition of our uno ama—the village hall—and was heartbroken. The structure, once built and donated by our son Orimili Atata Jerry Nwakobi, had fallen into disrepair. I felt a deep sense of duty, especially as a diaspora member, to restore what was once a proud symbol of unity. As we say, “ndi no n’uno” (those at home) must be supported by “ndi jebelu ejebe” (those abroad).
Stadt: What does the hall represent to you culturally or personally?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: The uno ama is more than a building—it’s our village square, our courtroom, and our family room. It holds the memories, decisions, and collective strength of our people. Restoring it meant restoring our communal identity.
Stadt: How did your upbringing in Ifite Nteje influence your desire to give back?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: Growing up, we were taught to “echezona ebe isi bia”—never forget your roots. That principle has guided me even abroad. Our success should ripple back home, and this project was a chance to do just that.
Stadt: Were there any pivotal moments that compelled you to act?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: Yes, watching villagers still gather in the hall, despite its dilapidated state, stirred something in me. I knew we couldn’t wait. If we, the diaspora, don’t step up, who will?
Stadt: What were your goals for the hall’s reconstruction?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: To modernize it while preserving its original purpose as a communal space. We wanted it to serve not just as a hall, but as a venue for events—weddings, conferences, and more—that could generate revenue and support the village.
Stadt: What upgrades were prioritized?
The Community Hall Under reconstruction
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: We focused on structural durability, lighting, ventilation, and security. We added modern lockable doors and safety features, ensuring the hall is both welcoming and secure.
Stadt: Why did you choose to use local labor?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: It was vital. Using local hands created jobs, instilled pride, and gave the community ownership. It wasn’t just a building project—it was a people project.
Stadt: How did you ensure quality work from local laborers?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: We worked with a professional contractor who trained and guided the local team. My coordinators, Echezona Anene and Ozoemene Obalim, played critical roles in overseeing quality and progress.
Stadt: What has been the social and economic impact of this approach?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: Economically, it provided jobs and circulated funds locally. Socially, it united the people. From laborers to security teams, everyone contributed and took pride in the outcome.
Stadt: How did you manage the project from the U.S.?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: Daily WhatsApp video calls and unwavering support from my ground team. Trust, communication, and technology made the impossible possible.
Stadt: What challenges did you face during the project?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: The biggest was funding. Initially, I hoped to rally financial support from the diaspora, but the urgency meant starting before that could happen. I personally financed the project, with expectations of refunds from my diaspora brothers even as inflation pushed costs higher than expected. It’s been a sacrifice, but one worth making. Unfortunately, only one brother (Pius Nwedo) contributed financially.
Stadt: How will the hall be sustained moving forward?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: A management committee will handle operations, bookings, and maintenance. Rental income will be reinvested into the hall and future community projects.
Stadt: What kind of feedback have you received?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: Heartwarming. People see the hall as a symbol of hope. Some even said the spirit of Chi Umuanugwa—our ancestors—was revived through this work. We also restored the village borehole, providing free clean water, which added to the joy.
Stadt: Are there more projects on the horizon?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: Yes, but with better financial planning. This success has encouraged me to keep contributing—if it benefits the people, I’m open to it.
Stadt: What lessons did you learn from this experience?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: Plan your finances well before starting. While passion and urgency matter, financial preparedness is crucial. Also, never underestimate the power of local collaboration.
Stadt: How does it feel to leave a legacy like this?
Engr. Osita Nwakobi: It’s deeply fulfilling. The hall is now more than a structure—it’s a monument of love, unity, and hope. We plan to inscribe the names of all who contributed. I’m proud to have played a part. My mentor and big uncle Chief Philip Ozuah (Anugwa I) laid the groundwork for doing things for our people. I am so grateful to God that I had the means to undertake and finish the project with support from Pius Nwedo ( Nwakibie).
Honouring Commitment at Home: Chief Pius Nwedo (Nwakibie) on Restoring Umuanugwa’s Historic Hall
In a story that has captured the admiration of Ndi Nteje, the transformation of the Umuanugwa Village Hall stands not only as a symbol of renewal but as a testimony to the quiet strength of collaboration and selfless giving. While much has been said about the bold leadership of Engr. Sir Knight Osita Nwakobi (Mazi Asikabulu), no account would be complete without acknowledging the critical support of Chief Pius Nwedo (Nwakibie), a fellow son of the soil whose financial sacrifice and unwavering belief in community development gave the project its much-needed foundation. Chief Nwedo is not one to seek the spotlight. But his firm and timely contribution made all the difference when the project faced early funding hurdles. For him, it was never about recognition. It was about responsibility. In this rare conversation with Stadt Newspaper, Nwakibie reflects on heritage, obligation, and his quiet but profound role in rebuilding the spiritual and social epicenter of Umuanugwa.
Stadt: You were the sole financial supporter from Umuanugwa who joined Engr. Osita Nwakobi in the renovation of the Umuanugwa Town Hall. Sir, please introduce yourself and share what inspired you to get involved.
Pius Nwedo: Thank you. My name is Pius Nwedo, Ozo Nwakibeya na Nteje, from Umuanugwa Akamanato Ifite Nteje. I currently live in Dublin, Ireland. Supporting Engr. Osita Nwakobi in the restoration of the Umuanugwa Village Hall was never a difficult decision for me. When Engr. Osita shared his vision with me, I didn’t hesitate. The condition of the hall was unacceptable. It was a shame for our generation to watch such a landmark, donated by Jerry Nwakobi, (Orimili Atata) one of our best, deteriorate before our eyes. I saw a brother determined to change that, and I felt the least I could do was stand beside him. We owe it to our fathers and our children.
“ndi no n’uno”
Chief Pius Nwedo (Ozo Nwakibeya na Nteje)
Being a son of the soil, I have a deep connection and commitment to my community’s wellbeing, even though I’ve lived abroad for many years. The age-old saying goes, “onye jeli Ije jeveli ndi no n’uno, ndi no n’uno nudulu onye jeveli ije”. When Engr. Nwakobi shared with me the state of the hall through videos and the vision for its renovation, I knew action was necessary. Beyond financial support, I contributed ideas along the way and closely followed the progress. I also want to recognize the young people in Nigeria who gave tirelessly of their time and effort. Money alone doesn’t complete projects, it is people with ideas and dedication that bring them to life. Their passion was truly inspiring.
Stadt: What does the town hall represent to you personally?
Pius Nwedo: The hall is more than just a building; it embodies the spirit and history of Umuanugwa. Growing up, our village had the Okwolo, a communal meeting spot for market days. Later, the Village Hall, originally rebuilt 24 years ago by Orimili Atata Jerry Nwakobi, became a central gathering place. In Nteje, every village has some form of hall — it’s a hub for community meetings, celebrations, even schooling at times. The hall fosters unity, serving as a playground for children, a meeting ground for adults, and a venue for ceremonies. Its renovation opens up even more possibilities for cultural and social activities. It truly represents everything that binds the community together.
Stadt: How did your personal values influence your decision to contribute?
Pius Nwedo: When the renovation began, none of us anticipated the full cost. Initially, I thought the project might require around 10 million naira, but the expenses quickly exceeded that as demolition was underway. I kept in close contact with Engr. Nwakobi throughout. I suggested that other diaspora members be updated and engaged to maintain their support. He responded well, even involving others to rally the community. Chris Nwakobi is a remarkable man, an engineer, a respected Chief, a dedicated family man. His leadership and passion for the project motivated me to give my best. Importantly, he always emphasized that this was not a personal project, but one for the entire Umuanugwa community. The experience has shown me that with vision and commitment, we can achieve great things together.
Part of the extra ordinary designs of the interior
Stadt: You’ve lived abroad for decades. Why do you continue to invest in projects at home?
Pius Nwedo: I left Nigeria nearly 35 years ago, but my roots remain deeply planted. No matter where life takes you, home is where your story begins. The traditions, memories, and people there shape who we are. I believe that no matter the challenges, including security concerns, we have a responsibility to nurture and uplift our homeland. It’s where I grew up playing games, where our ancestors lived, where future generations will thrive. I’ve been involved in many community initiatives and I intend to do more. If I retire tomorrow, I want to be here among my people — this is home, and it will always be.
Stadt: Were you surprised to be the only person to provide financial support at the time?
Pius Nwedo: Honestly, yes. Umuanugwa has many capable and generous people, both at home and abroad. I expected more to step forward. The village hall is a symbol that belongs to everyone. It’s a place where children play, women gather, and men meet. It’s not owned by any individual but is shared by all generations. While only a few contributed financially, I believe this project will inspire more people to get involved. There is still much work to do in Umuanugwa, and I’m hopeful others will join future efforts.
Stadt: What was your reaction when you saw the completed hall?
Pius Nwedo: I was truly amazed. When I first saw photos of the finished hall, I hardly recognized the old village square. The transformation is spectacular, it looks like a palace to some who have visited recently! This achievement shows what happens when vision meets resources and dedicated people. The hall now stands as a proud monument to our community’s resilience and unity. It fills me with joy and pride to say I am from Umuanugwa.
Stadt: What lessons do you hope the diaspora takes from this experience?
Pius Nwedo: The key lesson is simple: never forget where you come from. Regardless of where life leads us, or how successful we become, our roots bind us. Our culture and community are the foundation of who we are. Blood is thicker than water — family, kindred, and community ties transcend distance and time. I encourage everyone in the diaspora to embrace this spirit and contribute however they can. Many more projects will come, and with God’s blessing and the enthusiasm of our youth, Umuanugwa and Akamanato will continue to thrive. Though our numbers abroad are few, the future is bright. I look forward to seeing a new generation of leaders emerge to carry this legacy forward.