**As event attract several traditional rulers from all over Nigeria in attendance
By Pat Gbemudu
The Ofuoma community in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, has extended its warmest congratulations to Dr. Isaac Akpoveta, Director-General of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), following his appointment as a United Nations Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC) Peace Ambassador.
The ceremony, held at his Ofuoma residence, marked a significant milestone in Dr. Akpoveta’s illustrious career, underscoring his unwavering commitment to humanitarian service and community development.
In addition to the esteemed Peace Ambassador title, Dr. Akpoveta received several distinguished honors, including a Doctor of Humane Letters (Honoris Causa) and his appointment as UN-POLAC Patron for the South-South region. These accolades further solidify his influence in peace advocacy and social impact.
The ceremony drew a distinguished gathering of traditional rulers, UN-POLAC officials, community leaders, family members, and friends, all united in celebrating Dr. Akpoveta’s achievements and contributions to society. In his acceptance speech, Dr. Akpoveta expressed profound gratitude, viewing the honors as a renewed call to serve humanity with greater dedication. He emphasized that the recognitions align with his core values of justice, peace, and inclusive development.
Dr. Akpoveta highlighted the importance of community-driven peace initiatives, noting that conflict often disproportionately affects the most vulnerable members of society. “When trouble comes, the vulnerable cannot run. The rich may escape, but the elderly, the disabled, and the underserved have nowhere to go. This is why we must create peace,” he said. He described the hoisting of the UN-POLAC flag in Ofuoma as a symbolic commitment by the community to uphold peacebuilding, compassion, and development-focused ideals.
The Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, His Majesty, Evangelist Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III, and former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Stephen Orise Oru, praised Dr. Akpoveta as a “worthy son” whose achievements continue to elevate the Ughelli Kingdom locally and internationally. They noted that Dr. Akpoveta holds two chieftaincy titles, including the Royal Physician of the Kingdom, and has consistently demonstrated excellence, humility, and dedication.
The Board Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Austin Obidi, congratulated Dr. Akpoveta on his recognition as a UN-POLAC Ambassador, describing it as a well-deserved honor befitting his character and contributions. The Director-General of UN-POLAC, His Excellency Prof. Lion Eton, represented by the Secretary-General, Amb. Patricia Agwu, commended Dr. Akpoveta’s impact, which extends beyond his immediate community to Delta State and beyond.
The ceremony featured the official decoration of Dr. Akpoveta as a UN-POLAC Peace Ambassador, goodwill messages, and the hoisting of the UN-POLAC flag.