The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, has commended Netherlands-based Abian, Azubuike Onwuka, for successfully completing a historic overland journey from Amsterdam in the Netherlands to Ohafia in Abia State.

Receiving Onwuka and his team on behalf of Governor Alex Otti at the Government House in Umuahia, Emetu described the achievement as a powerful demonstration of courage, determination, and the enduring bond between Abians in the diaspora and their homeland.

The journey saw Onwuka travel across 13 countries and cover more than 10,000 kilometres before arriving in Ohafia on the 50th day of the expedition.

According to the deputy governor, the adventure went beyond a simple road trip, representing a deeper quest for identity, cultural heritage, and reconnection with ancestral roots.

“Your journey is a powerful reminder that determination, courage and resilience can overcome barriers many consider impossible. You have made Abia proud and inspired young people across Nigeria and beyond,” Emetu said.

He revealed that he first became aware of the expedition while Onwuka was still in Lagos and immediately recognized the significance of the undertaking. He noted that the accomplishment demonstrates how perseverance and dedication can turn ambitious dreams into reality.

Emetu also expressed appreciation to Onwuka for donating the 1998 Honda CR-V used throughout the journey to the Abia State Government. He described the vehicle as an important historical and cultural artifact that would be preserved for future generations.

The deputy governor disclosed that the state government is currently developing the Ojukwu Bunker and other heritage preservation initiatives, assuring that the vehicle would be carefully maintained as a symbol of endurance, bravery, and the strong connection between Abians abroad and those at home.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Matthew Ekwuribe, described Onwuka as a proud son of Ohafia whose expedition was inspired by a desire to reconnect with his roots and witness firsthand the transformation taking place in Abia State.

Speaking during the reception, Onwuka expressed gratitude to the government and people of Abia State for the warm reception, describing the occasion as one of the most memorable experiences of his life.

He explained that being raised in the Netherlands by a Dutch mother and Nigerian father fueled his desire to learn more about his Igbo heritage and ancestral homeland.

“I wanted to understand more about where my ancestors came from. Seeing pictures or reading articles is not the same as standing on the soil, hearing the language and experiencing the culture firsthand,” he said.

Onwuka described his arrival in Abia as one of the most rewarding moments of the journey. He also commended the administration of Governor Alex Otti for the developmental progress recorded in the state, particularly in infrastructure and public organization.

In a symbolic gesture, he formally handed over the Honda CR-V that completed the transcontinental expedition, expressing hope that it would be preserved in a museum or cultural centre to inspire future generations.

The vehicle, which bears both Dutch and Nigerian registration plates, reflects Onwuka’s dual heritage and serves as a symbol of the enduring relationship between the diaspora community and their homeland.

Among those present during the visit were the Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Dr. Mrs. Salome Obiukwu; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Barr. Chibuzo Ehiemere; the Special Assistant to the Governor on Entertainment; and renowned musician J-Martins.