By Tony Okafor, Awka
Former Anambra State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. John Chuma Nwosu, has described the Annual August Meeting as one of the most enduring models of grassroots development in Africa, commending women for their pivotal role in transforming communities through self-help initiatives.
In a goodwill message to mark the 2026 Annual August Meeting, Nwosu said the women-led gathering had evolved beyond a cultural tradition into a formidable platform for community development, unity and the preservation of Igbo values.
He noted that women across Igbo communities had, over the years, mobilised resources through the annual meeting to execute projects that had significantly improved living conditions and strengthened social cohesion.
According to him, the initiatives undertaken by women’s groups include the construction of schools, equipping of health centres, provision of scholarships for indigent students, support for widows and vulnerable families, improvement of markets, construction of community halls, promotion of environmental sanitation and fostering of peace in their communities.
“The August Meeting has become one of Africa’s greatest symbols of community-driven development. Across Igbo land, our women have written an inspiring story of service and selflessness, leaving behind legacies that continue to benefit generations,” he said.
Nwosu said the achievements recorded through the annual gathering demonstrated that sustainable development was best achieved when communities were united and women were empowered to provide leadership.
He described the August Meeting as a development model worthy of emulation across Nigeria, citing its success in mobilising communities to address local challenges through collective action.
The former governorship candidate urged participants at this year’s gathering to deepen unity, preserve Igbo cultural heritage and mentor younger women to become responsible, innovative and community-oriented leaders.
He also encouraged women to embrace education, entrepreneurship, digital technology, financial independence and greater participation in governance, stressing that Nigeria’s long-term prosperity would depend significantly on the inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making.
“Our women are not merely participants in development; they are architects of progress. They nurture families, sustain businesses, build communities, preserve our values and inspire hope,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to policies that promote women’s empowerment, quality education, healthcare, youth development and inclusive governance, Nwosu expressed optimism that resolutions reached during the 2026 August Meeting would strengthen families, accelerate community development and contribute to the socio-economic advancement of Anambra State and Nigeria.
