Etche, Rivers State — The Chairman of Etche Local Government Area in Rivers State, Hon. Chima Boniface Njoku, has reportedly gifted ₦2 million to a physically challenged Ugele traditional singer in a gesture that has drawn praise from residents and cultural enthusiasts.
The incident was said to have taken place during a recent public cultural engagement in Etche, where the singer performed traditional Ugele music a deeply rooted indigenous art form known for its storytelling, rhythm, and cultural expression among the Etche people.
According to local accounts, the performance moved the council chairman, prompting him to publicly announce a ₦2 million cash gift in recognition of the performer’s talent, resilience, and contribution to preserving local heritage despite living with a physical disability.
The gesture has since circulated across community media platforms in Rivers State, with many describing it as a strong show of support for grassroots artists and persons living with disabilities.
Hon. Njoku, who currently serves as the chairman of Etche Local Government Area, has in recent months been associated with community-focused initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, supporting local development, and promoting cultural identity within the LGA.
Residents who witnessed or heard of the event have commended the move, noting that it highlights the importance of traditional music forms like Ugele, which continue to play a vital role in preserving Etche heritage.
Cultural stakeholders also emphasized that such recognition could encourage young and disabled performers to remain active in the arts, while drawing more attention to indigenous performance traditions that are gradually fading in some communities.
The gesture reflects a growing trend among local government officials in Nigeria who are increasingly engaging with community artists and cultural practitioners as part of broader social inclusion and empowerment efforts.
Chima Boniface Njoku is the current chairman of Etche Local Government Area in Rivers State, where he oversees local administration and development initiatives within the council area.
