“A Crown for the Golden Fish” — UN-POLAC Bestows Double Honour on Imo Sports Commission Boss, Hon. Sir Prince (Amb) Eleazar Onyewuchi Ogbonna FINCA, JP

_By Orji Sampson, Media Aide To Imo State Sports Commission Chairman_

 

LAGOS — In a blaze of glory and amidst thunderous applause, the glitz and grandeur of Lagos played host to an unforgettable moment in Nigeria's humanitarian and sports development history as Hon. Sir Prince (Amb) Eleazar Onyewuchi Ogbonna FINCA, the Executive Chairman of Imo State Sports Commission, received a rare double honour from the prestigious United Nations Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC).

On Monday, June 30, 2025, the charismatic sports administrator and philanthropist was conferred with Justice of Peace (JP) and a distinguished Honorary Doctorate Degree in Peace Education & Humanity, cementing his place as a beacon of hope, unity, and progress in Africa.

The award ceremony, held at a high-profile venue in Lagos, was presided over by Prof. (Obong) Hals B. Eton JP, MyrP, the respected Director General of UN-POLAC. The atmosphere was electric, with dignitaries, diplomats, sports icons, media houses, and traditional rulers gracing the occasion to celebrate a man whose name has become synonymous with transformation, humility, and excellence.

 _A Life of Purpose, A Career of Impact_ 

The recognition came as no surprise to those who know Amb. Ogbonna’s towering legacy. From gracing Italian football stadiums as a formidable player with clubs like Catarnya FC, Frustenone FC, and Gracia FC, to becoming a successful international businessman and a pillar of community empowerment, his life’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, vision, and service.

At the helm of the Imo State Sports Commission, Ogbonna has rewritten the narrative of sports development—spearheading grassroots talent promotion, championing athlete welfare, and reviving moribund sports infrastructure. His appointment by the Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, CON, was a turning point for sports in the state, a decision now universally seen as divinely inspired.

 _A Global Humanitarian with Local Roots_ 

Through his widely acclaimed Prince Ogbonna Development Empowerment Foundation (PODEF), Amb. Ogbonna has empowered over 5,000 Nigerians, offering vocational support, employment, and relief to the underserved. His philanthropic reach extends to religious institutions across denominations, earning him the prestigious Knight of St. Christopher (KSC) from the Anglican Communion.

As a man deeply rooted in faith and humanity, his contributions have transcended borders. His business empire—which spans automobile, education, oil and gas, and general imports/exports—has not only created thousands of jobs but also placed Nigeria on the map of ethical enterprise.

The awards were formally presented by UN-POLAC’s DG, Prof. Hals B. Eton, who in his citation described Amb. Ogbonna as “a man of peace, a strategic nation builder, and a global citizen whose deeds inspire a generation.” The Doctorate Degree, in particular, recognizes his commitment to peace education, capacity building, and human dignity.

Other accolades were heaped upon him by sports veterans, media organizations, and former footballers, including the Sports Media Veterans (SMV) and All Stars United Footballers Association, Lagos—groups who described him as the “people’s chairman” and “the lifeline of Nigerian sports renaissance.”

 _The Man Behind the Medals_ 

Hailed as “the black man with European peculiarities” and “a repository of public trust,” Prince Ogbonna’s story is not just about personal success but societal transformation. A husband, father of five, community builder, and unwavering patriot, he has proven that true leadership is about action, not titles.

From the dusty fields of Obinze in Owerri West LGA to the limelight of international stages, Amb. Ogbonna remains grounded in humility and lifted by purpose.

As the golden plaques of UN-POLAC were handed to him, they did not just crown a man—they crowned a legacy.

This double honour is not merely a recognition of past achievements, but a challenge to continue blazing trails. In a world desperately in need of peace, integrity, and progress, Hon. Sir Prince (Amb) Eleazar Onyewuchi Ogbonna, FINCA, JP, has emerged as a torchbearer for a better Africa.

> Indeed, the cap fits—and he wears it with grace.