The launch of two novels, Rose Petals and Glittering Spear, written by Mrs. Obianuju Ekwughe-Azukaego, a journalist and information officer with the Anambra State Ministry of Information, was marked by high commendations from academics, media professionals, government officials, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate her literary achievement.
Speaking at the event, Professor Osita Nwossu, a former lecturer of the author, recalled her outstanding brilliance as a student during her university days.
He described the task of writing and publishing books as demanding and intellectually rigorous, noting that Mrs. Ekwughe-Azukaego’s accomplishment reflected discipline, vision, and excellence.
Professor Nwossu revealed that he would liaise with the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, to facilitate discussions with the Commissioner for Education, with the aim of recommending the books for use in schools across Anambra State.
He further described the author as “a Chimamanda Adichie in the making,” expressing confidence that her works would travel far beyond Nigeria to reach a global audience.
Encouraging her to continue writing, he said the book launch was a clear demonstration of excellence and congratulated her for successfully bringing the two novels to life.
The Director of Information in the Anambra State Ministry of Information, Mr. Emmanuel Ikegwali, also praised the author, describing her as a blessing not only to the ministry but to society at large.
He said she is a source of pride to the ministry and one of his best staff, commending her wisdom, dedication, and professionalism in the discharge of her duties.
Mr. Ikegwali strongly recommended the books to readers, noting their relevance and positive impact.
Former Special Adviser on Media to former Governor Willie Obiano, Mr. Valentine Obienyem, who represented both Mr. Peter Obi and himself at the ceremony, said he had known Mrs. Ekwughe-Azukaego for over 20 years.
He described her as a woman of integrity and diligence, adding that her consistency and hard work over the years made the occasion particularly fulfilling for him.
The novels were reviewed by Mrs. Ewa Ekpa, an information officer with the Anambra State Ministry of Information, who highlighted their thematic depth and relevance to contemporary societal realities, especially the challenges confronting young people.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Ekwughe-Azukaego said the occasion was not merely the fulfillment of a personal ambition but the realization of a long-nurtured vision.
She explained that the books represent her modest contribution to promoting a strong reading culture in a rapidly evolving digital world.
She noted that Rose Petals and Glittering Spear were written to inspire young people to embrace self-discovery, determination, hard work, and resilience in the face of a troubled and often frustrating world.
According to her, the novels are meant to prepare young minds to understand life as a voyage across a vast and unpredictable ocean, one marked by turbulent waves and storms, yet sustained by courage, hope, and the belief that perseverance will ultimately lead to safe and rewarding shores.
Expressing confidence in the impact of her works, she said the novels would help redirect the minds of misguided youths, discourage the pursuit of dubious shortcuts to success, and instead promote hard work, patience, and integrity as the true pathways to achieving lasting dreams.
Many guests at the event spoke glowingly of the author, praising her literary creativity, her commitment to social values, and her dedication to public service.
The launch ceremony which held at the press center of the Anambra state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Awka, was attended by members of her family, including her children and her husband, a pastor with the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministry in Asaba.
Also present were friends, colleagues, and prominent media practitioners, including the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, Mr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, among others.
The unveiling of Rose Petals and Glittering Spear was widely regarded as a significant literary milestone and a meaningful contribution to youth development, cultural enrichment, and value-driven storytelling in Anambra State and beyond.
