On 12th November 2025, AdaojiRiver Optimal Communications convened the OWA @ 65 events in commemoration of Ford Foundation West Africa’s 65 years of impact, under the theme “From Nation Building to Social Justice.” The event took place at Oakland Hotel, Ebeano Tunnel, Enugu, and brought together policymakers, traditional leaders, civil society actors, gender advocates, media professionals, and grassroots women leaders.
The event commenced with arrival and registration, followed by a warm welcome by the event compères, Jideofor Egbuchie and Uche Gabriel. The Executive Director of AdaojiRiver, Maureen Udeh, delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone by reflecting on Ford Foundation’s legacy of advancing equity, justice, and inclusive development across West Africa.
Onyinye Onyemobi, representing Ford Foundation, delivered the welcome remark emphasizing the Foundation’s long-standing commitment to strengthening institutions, supporting grassroots movements, and amplifying marginalized voices. This was followed by a keynote address from Rt. Hon. Uche C. Ugwu of the Enugu State House of Assembly, who highlighted the role of policy, partnerships, and civic engagement in sustaining social justice reforms.
Goodwill messages were delivered by distinguished guests including Jude Ilo, CEO of The Hague Institute for Innovation of Law (HiiL), Rev. Fr. Mario Ikechukwu, a gender activist, Their messages reinforced the importance of collaboration between government, traditional institutions, and civil society in advancing women’s rights and justice reforms .
A key highlight of the event was the documentary screening, produced by AdaojiRiver Communications in collaboration with SignatureTV, showcasing lived experiences, grassroots advocacy, and the evolving journey from nation building to people-centered justice. This was followed by experience-sharing sessions where participants reflected on community realities of survivors and advocacy lessons.
The plenary session titled “Women Speak Justice: Amplifying Grassroots Voices for Policy and Cultural Reform” featured a high-level panel moderated by Uche Gabriel, General Manager of Solid FM and gender advocate. Panelists included Larry Oguego, His Royal Highness Igwe Ignatius Okpara, Barr. Nnenna Anozie, Lady Benedeth Mmaduka, and Aleke Blessing. Discussions focused on women’s leadership, justice delivery, cultural reform and strengthening community-driven advocacy.
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, allowing participants to share insights, recommendations, and policy-oriented suggestions. Closing remarks were delivered by Dr. David Ugwunta, Board Member of AdaojiRiver, who commended stakeholders for their commitment to social justice and reaffirmed AdaojiRiver’s mission to amplify grassroots voices.
The event concluded with cultural performances by the Adanta Cultural Group, followed by lunch and networking, reinforcing unity, cultural heritage, and shared commitment to social justice advocacy.
