Abia State: Renewed Hope Partners Meeting
The Renewed Hope Partners Abia State held a grand Town Hall Meeting and Christmas food distribution in celebration with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, LL.D, CFR. The well-attended event took place on Monday, 29th December 2025, at his country home in Bende, bringing together party members, community leaders, and beneficiaries from across the state.
The annual gathering, which has been sustained since 2003—nearly twenty-three years ago—was conceived as a platform for direct engagement with constituents. Over the years, it has remained focused on giving back to society, promoting unity, and advancing human capital development across Abia State, especially during the Christmas season.
The programme commenced with an opening prayer led by Lord Bishop Eke, followed by intercessory prayers from other religious leaders. Special prayers were offered for the peace, progress, and unity of Nigeria, as well as for divine guidance and strength for the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, in his national responsibilities and service to Bende Federal Constituency.
A major highlight of the event was the massive empowerment and welfare package unveiled for the people. This included the presentation of a ₦1 billion cheque for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) development, the distribution of over twenty trailers of rice, and an additional ₦1.5 billion shared among churches across Abia State, pro-groups in all local government areas, and APC members statewide.
The occasion attracted dignitaries from diverse backgrounds, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, political stakeholders, and business leaders. Among those present were Hon. Chris Nkwonta, Hon. Emeka Wogu, Hon. Uzo Azubuike, Hon. Blessing Dame Nwagba, Hon. Abraham U. Oba, Hon. Cosmos Ndukwe, Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka, Hon. Martins Azubuike, Dr. Kingsley Onanogbu, Chief Charles Ogbonna, Hon. Nubuisi Ijiri of Bende, Hon. Enyinnaya Ubani, Hon. Sunny Udeagha, and many others.
Women turned out in their thousands, dancing joyfully in celebration of Christmas and in solidarity with the Deputy Speaker. The atmosphere was festive and uplifting, as beneficiaries departed happily to their respective local government areas, each receiving gifts that underscored the spirit of compassion, inclusion, and renewed hope that defined the event.
