HOW PRIESTLY APARTMENT STOLE THE SPOTLIGHT AT NUJ ANAMBRA @35 CELEBRATION
By Oguocha Chukwuebuka
Days after the colourful 35th Anniversary and Man of the Year Ceremony of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Anambra State Council, one venue still remains in the lips of Anambra Journalists — the luxurious Priestly Apartment, Awka.
The elegant hospitality haven, located close to the Anambra State Government House, was the venue for the Council’s evening hangout as part of activities marking the Press Week.
The day began with an unprecedented VIP gesture that stunned the journalists on arrival.
Right at the entrance of Priestly Apartment, a giant welcome banner was strategically placed with the inscription:
“WELCOME to Priestly Apartment our esteemed Guests, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Council. It is our pleasure to Welcome you to our home of hospitality, as you celebrate your 2026 Press Week, Annual Man of the Year Ceremony and 35th Years Anniversary.”
The Chairman of the Council, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, who was visibly elated, ordered members to pose before the banner for a group photograph. They were warmly received by the Manager, Mrs. Okonkwo Ogochukwu, and Supervisor, Mr. Umaru David, who joined in the photo session after a cordial exchange of pleasantries.
As the journalists proceeded to the exquisite rooftop bar reserved for their evening, they met another surprise — customized branded bottled water bearing the same welcome inscription. The touch of class sparked admiration and many immediately began making enquiries to book spaces for various events.
The evening reached its peak when the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, who had travelled all the way from Abuja for the anniversary, arrived the venue.
The journalists, already merrying at the rooftop bar, rose in excitement to welcome their National Leader. He was led to the bar amidst cheers and warm embraces.
After settling in and observing the elegant ambiance and thoughtful hospitality of Priestly Apartment, Comrade Yahya addressed his colleagues.
In his goodwill message, the National President expressed joy at connecting with his members.
“My dear colleagues, I am filled with great joy to be here in Awka today to share this moment with you. I came all the way from Abuja and even though I arrived late, the love and spirit of comradeship I have felt here tonight has made my journey worthwhile.
I want to commend you all for upholding the true spirit of comradeship and for remaining steadfast as members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm. I must specially commend my brother and Chairman of Anambra Council, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, for his good works. The success of this 35th Anniversary is clear evidence of purposeful leadership. I urge you to continue to support him as we build a stronger and more united NUJ.”
His remarks drew resounding applause from the journalists who were already captivated by the serene and luxurious environment.
At the end of the night, from the National President to the members of the union, the verdict was unanimous.
