Imo Scouts Honour Acting Chief Judge Agugua, Confer Patronage on Okenze Obinna, Kaduru, Others
…Urge Members to Uphold Scout Values
By Anselem Anokwute
The Imo State Council of the Scout Association of Nigeria held a grand ceremony to honour its State President, Hon. Justice Ijeoma Agugua, who was recently appointed as the Acting Chief Judge of Imo State.
The event, which brought together prominent dignitaries, scout leaders, and members from across the state, also served as an occasion to induct new patrons into the organization. Those honoured included Okenze Sylvester Obinna, Dr. Chijioke Kaduru, Chief Dennis Okwu, Chief Mrs. Ruby Emele, and Rt. Hon. Ikenna Elezieanya — all of whom were recognized for their past contributions and ongoing support for the scout movement in Imo State.
Speaking at the event, the Imo State Scout Commissioner, Amb. Sixtus Obinna Nwoke, commended members of the organization for their commitment and unity in celebrating one of their own. He described Justice Agugua as a “loving mother and technocrat” whose early life and values were shaped through her involvement in the scouts.
Amb. Nwoke expressed appreciation to the newly inducted patrons for accepting to partner with the Scouts, assuring that their support would contribute significantly to the growth of the movement in the state.
In her remarks, Justice Agugua thanked the Scout Council for the honour and pledged to remain a strong supporter of the organization. She urged members to hold firmly to the tenets and ethics of scouting, which emphasize integrity, honesty, transparency, and service to humanity.
Also present at the event was the National President of the Scout Association of Nigeria, Chief Dave Padopat, who joined in celebrating Justice Agugua and welcomed the newly inducted patrons. He commended the Imo State Council for its efforts and promised to support the establishment of more Scout clusters across the state.
New patron Okenze Sylvester Obinna expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to support the group by sponsoring and and facilitating a scout program in his hometown primary school in Nguru Umuaro, Ngor Okpala LGA.
“As a patron, I am now an automatic member of this great organization,” Obinna said. “I will do everything possible to bring the Scouts to my community. My company is based at home, and I always encourage others to invest in their roots—there is no place like home.”
Dr. Chijioke Kaduru also commended the scouts and promised to provide 200 sets of uniforms and sponsor two members to the 2026 World Scout Convention in Poland.
“Every individual has something to contribute to society,” Kaduru stated. “We must not leave everything to the government. I see this as my sacrifice to God and humanity.”
He further hinted at his political ambition, expressing interest in contesting in the next election cycle to further serve the people of Imo State.
Prince Lemy Akakem, a recipient of the Long Service Award, reflected on the role the Scouts played in shaping his moral and leadership values. He described the organization as a cornerstone of discipline, integrity, and community service.
He also praised Justice Agugua for her exemplary service and leadership as both Acting Chief Judge and President of the Imo State Scout Council, and thanked Chief Dave Padopat for his presence and support.
