The Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON) Mallam Jibrin Ndace, says the international broadcasting station is ready to partner with traditional institutions in South East Nigeria to foster positive reportage of activities about Nigeria and Africa to the world.

Mallam Jibrin expressed the readiness to boost ties with traditional monarchs in the region, during a reception for the VON DG, on Thursday, at the palace of Igwe Samuel Asadu, the traditional ruler of the ancient Edem-Ani Ogwugwu kingdom of Nsukka, Enugu State.

The visit to the Chief is part of events by VON DG in undertaking a tour of offices in the Southeast region of Nigeria. He had earlier visited the organisation’s zonal offices in the North East, South-South and South West of Nigeria.

Mallam Ndace praised Igwe Asadu for his exemplary rulership style of service to the people, humility, integrity, and philanthropy.

“Your reputation for integrity and your contributions to your community are commendable. You exemplify what it means to give back to society—an inspiration for all Nigerians.” Mallam Jibrin said.

The Igwe, who is also the Chairman of Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers’ and recently appointed Chairman for all South East traditional rulers advised the VON DG to maintain his focus and resilience, as akin to the pivotal role of a ‘number 9’ football player.

“I envision the world as a football field filled with players, each designated by numbers. In this context, numbers 9 and 10 are instrumental – masters of the eighteen-yard box, reminiscent of icons like Messi and Ronaldo. The ‘number 9’ serves as the striker, crucial for the team’s success,” Igwe Asadu explained.

 “The federal government has positioned you in a significant role, as a ‘number 9’. Each day, as the overall leader, remain steadfast and focused on tangible outcomes, as resilience leads to recognition in society.”

He emphasised the importance of recognising the impact one has on the lives of others, particularly in uplifting staff through fair management practices.

Igwe Asadu also advised Nigerian youths to honor their parents and seek prosperity through honest and legitimate means, drawing attention to lessons from his own journey in life.

“I listened to my parents, which enabled my success as a professional nurse…despite coming from a lowly background, I thrived during my 29 years in Dallas, USA. I am now one year and nine months into my reign – a blessing I do not take lightly.”

Urging unity among Nigerians, he highlighted the need to transcend ethnic and religious lines.

The VON DG also commended Igwe Asadu’s decision to leave his nursing career in the United States to dedicate himself to serving his community, noting his collaborative efforts with fellow traditional rulers to promote unity among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.

In reaffirming a robust partnership with the kingdom, Mallam Jibrin Ndace stated, “We are committed to changing the narrative and are eager to collaborate with you as an institution.” He promised comprehensive coverage of all development initiatives of the community.

Igwe Samuel Asadu, the traditional ruler of the ancient Edem-Ani Ogwugwu kingdom of Nsukka, also known as Ogadagidi, is renowned for his philanthropic endeavours. He is currently sponsoring nine indigent students in further studies abroad and operates a Food Bank that feeds about two hundred and fifty people of the community on a daily basis.

He has also personally undertaken construction of a hospital and building of homes for people of the community.