From TCNEWS
In a moving tribute to humanitarianism and faith-driven leadership, the Catholic Men Organization (CMO) of Assumpta Maria Cathedral Parish, Owerri, honoured Dr. Mazi Chima Mathew Amadi with the prestigious “Dike Oha N’ime Kristi” (Hero of the People in Christ) Award on Saturday, June 7, 2025.
The honour was conferred during a special dinner and interactive session with the Metropolitan Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, spotlighting Amadi’s lifelong dedication to the service of humanity, the Catholic Church, and society at large, as made available to newsmen by the spokesperson, Cajetan Duke, JP.
Amadi, a PhD holder, renowned philanthropist, and founder of The Mazi Organization (TMO), one of Imo State’s fastest-growing sociopolitical movements, was celebrated for his unparalleled charitable contributions, including a ₦20 million donation toward ongoing church projects.
But beyond financial generosity, Amadi’s award reflects his deeper commitment to community transformation, values-based leadership, and Christian service, a message especially resonant in a region grappling with socio-economic disparity, civil unrest, and a crumbling public education system.
The award ceremony was held at Assumpta Maria Cathedral and was graced by top clergy, civic leaders, and politicians. Delivering the award, Cathedral Administrator Rev. Fr. Dr. Martin-Edward Ohajunwa described Amadi as a “selfless servant whose love for the Church and community remains steadfast.”
“His leadership embodies compassion, integrity, and service,” Rev. Ohajunwa said.
The CMO President, Dr. Alphonsus U.C. Ukozor, echoed similar sentiments, calling Amadi “a champion of the poor and downtrodden,” whose philanthropic efforts are “a ray of light in today’s uncertain world.”
Delivering a compelling keynote address titled “My Message to the Church: A Solemn Treatise on the Responsibilities of Man to Society,” Amadi called for urgent reforms in key sectors, including education, civil service and Security.
Proposing a community-based approach, Amadi urged every “conscious Imo citizen” to participate in intelligence-sharing and support for national security:
“Service to others must be the hallmark of leadership,” he said. “We must build a society that works not just for the privileged few, but for all, regardless of religion or political alignment.”
The event marked not just a personal milestone for Amadi, but also reinforced his emerging influence in Imo State’s socio-political landscape. Flanked by his political associates, including Dr. Matthew Nwogu (MP), Chief Henry Onwukwe, Barr. Uche Nwosu, and others, the evening served as a quiet but potent gathering of minds shaping the future of southeastern Nigeria.
In a time when Nigeria faces deepening governance challenges, Amadi’s recognition by a major religious institution highlights a growing demand for ethical, people-centred leadership.
The blending of faith-based values with civic engagement, as exemplified in Amadi’s work, offers a possible blueprint for community resilience, where service, not self-interest, is the measure of leadership.
As Amadi looks to the future, this honour may well be more than symbolic, it may signal a broader shift in how religious, civic, and political leaders can align to build a more just and compassionate society.
