Reclaiming Our Values: Restoring the Dignity of Labor and Honor Among Ndi Anambra – Law Mefor (PhD)

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, a dangerous narrative is spreading among our youths, that crime pays. Fraud, cultism, drug abuse, and violence are being embraced as survival strategies. This i s painful to us a s Ndi Igbo, because our heritage has always been built on igba mbo, hard work, and dignity. As our people say, aka aja aja na-ebute onu mmanu mmany, dirty hands from labor bring oily mouths from reward. But sadly, many of our children now see shortcuts as the only way forward.

This is not who we are. Ndi Anambra are known for industry, ingenuity, and resilience. From the markets of Onitsha to the businesses in Lagos, to the diasporas abroad, we have made our mark through honest toil, not crime. As our elders remind us, he onye metara, ya buru, every man must bear the consequences of what he sows. We must not allow a new generation t o inherit shame instead of pride. This i s why the Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Information, in Collaboration with Global Security network has launched the Anambra Civic Pulse under the larger Civic Rebranding Initiative. This i s not just another program; it is a moral movement. I t i s about reclaiming the soul o f our land, reshaping attitudes, and restoring the time-tested values that made Ndi Igbo a people o f honor.

Through Civic Pulse, we are going into schools, churches, communities, and the very streets where these battles are being fought. We are speaking directly to our youths, telling them: Onye buru chi ya uzo, ogbagbue onwe ya n’oso, whoever runs ahead o f destiny with greed and crime will only destroy himself. We are showing them better paths: the dignity of labor, the pride of integrity, and the power of enterprise.

Let us be clear: crime is not a culture. It destroys homes, futures, and reputations But mmadu bu chi ibe ya, we are each other’s destiny. Together, w e can rescue our children from this dangerous path and give them a future o f honor. This rebranding is not about image; it is about building substance, shaping character, redefining success for the next generation.

So today, I call on parents, teachers, traditional rulers, clergy, and all community leaders: this is our collective duty. Let us guide our children with discipline and love. Let us celebrate those who excel in honesty, not those who flaunt wealth without labor. And to our youths, I say: ego amaghi onye nwe ya, money without a trace destroys its owner. Choose the path o f wisdom, the path o f honor, and the path that will make both you and Anambra proud. Together, we will prove again that Ndi Anambra thrive not by crime, but by creativity, courage, and character.

Uchu, Uche na Egwu Chukwu!!!

Anambra bunke anyi!!!