Special Report for Fresh Facts Magazine
It was a day of splendor, tradition, and heartfelt tributes as the Advocate for Good Governance in Nigeria (AFGIN) honored His Royal Highness, Eze Ambassador Bekwele Weli Attam JP, Paramount Ruler of Nyew-n-Eli, Rumuagholu, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with the prestigious Icon of Hope to Humanity Award.
The colorful ceremony, which coincided with the revered monarch’s birthday, brought together dignitaries, traditional rulers, politicians, business leaders, family members, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate a man whose life embodies peace, service, and leadership.
AFGIN’s Tribute to a Royal Father
Delivering the keynote tribute on behalf of AFGIN’s Executive Director, Amb. Dr. Awalu Malik, the organization’s Director of Programs, Dr. Ojomah Monday, described Eze Attam as “an extraordinary leader, a custodian of tradition, and a humanitarian whose reign has fostered unity and development.”
In his address, Dr. Ojomah highlighted the monarch’s impact:
- As a cultural custodian, preserving the dignity and values of Rumuagholu.
- As a peace-builder, ensuring harmony within his domain and beyond.
- As a humanitarian, uplifting widows, orphans, and the less privileged.
- As a symbol of progress, balancing tradition with modern development.
“Your Royal Highness, greatness is not defined by position alone, but by the lives you touch and the legacy you leave behind,” Ojomah declared. “This award is not only recognition of your accomplishments but also a celebration of your humanity and your enduring contributions to society.”
Goodwill Messages
The event was punctuated by glowing tributes from dignitaries and community leaders who extolled Eze Attam’s virtues.
- Aaron Chukwuemeka, Rivers State PDP Chairman, described the monarch as “a father to all, whose wisdom and guidance have been pivotal in strengthening peace and political stability in Rivers State. His life is a shining example of leadership rooted in service.”
- Chief (Mrs.) Felicia Attam, speaking on behalf of the family, expressed gratitude to God for her husband’s life and praised his compassion and humility. “He wears the crown with grace and serves his people with love. Today, we thank God for his life and for the recognition of his labor by AFGIN.”
- Community leaders and youth representatives hailed Eze Attam as a source of inspiration. One youth leader, Mr. Stanley Worlu, noted: “He believes in the potential of young people and constantly encourages us to embrace education, skill acquisition, and unity. We are proud to have him as our Royal Father.”
- A fellow traditional ruler, HRH Eze Michael Nwuke, remarked: “Eze Attam is a bridge-builder, not only within Rumuagholu but across Rivers State. His commitment to peace has been unwavering.”
A Double Celebration
The atmosphere of joy was heightened as the award presentation coincided with the monarch’s birthday. Guests sang birthday songs, prayers were offered for long life and good health, and a grand cake-cutting ceremony added color to the occasion.
In his brief response, HRH Eze Amb. Bekwele Weli Attam JP thanked AFGIN for the honor and pledged to continue serving his people with fairness, humility, and dedication. “This r ecognition strengthens my resolve to be a servant-leader. My vision is for Rumuagholu to remain a symbol of peace, unity, and progress in Rivers State,” he said.
A Day to Remember
The event was more than just an award ceremony—it was a celebration of leadership, culture, and humanity. From the heartfelt speeches to the traditional displays and birthday festivities, it was a day that reflected the true essence of Eze Attam: a monarch loved by his people, respected by his peers, and honored by the nation.
As the curtains drew on the historic celebration, one thing was clear: HRH Eze Amb. Bekwele Weli Attam JP is not only a Paramount Ruler—he is, indeed, an Icon of Hope to Humanity.
