Chief Maja Emeka Umeh || A Legacy of Leadership, Culture, and Community Development in Amichi, Anambra State

Chief Maja Emeka Umeh, fondly remembered as “Ọkwáka n’Anya Amichi,” was more than just a political figure in Anambra State,  he was a cultural custodian, philanthropist, advocate of community development, and a pillar of Igbo heritage. His journey from childhood to his final days was marked by unwavering dedication to uplifting his people, particularly his hometown of Amichi in Nnewi South Local Government Area.

Early Life and Education

Chief Maja Umeh was born on October 7, 1960, in Enugu but hailed originally from Amichi. His early childhood unfolded in the vibrant and educationally progressive environment of Enugu, where he began his formal education at St. Mary’s Primary School, Uwani. After the Nigerian Civil War broke out, his family returned to Amichi, where he continued at St. Eugenia Primary School. He attended Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha, and later earned a Political Science degree from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, followed by a Master’s degree.

Career and Public Service

Chief Umeh began his career as a lecturer at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), then transitioned into private enterprise and public service. He held positions such as General Manager at Luksim & Co. and Executive Director at Aldove Ltd. His political journey began with his appointment as Special Adviser to Governor Peter Obi, eventually rising to serve as Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism in Anambra State.

During his tenure, he modernized the state’s media operations, promoted cultural awareness, and championed tourism. As a core member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), he was known for his efforts to resolve internal party disputes and was recognized as Life Patron of APGA in October 2023.

Champion of Culture and Festivals

Chief Umeh was a powerful advocate for the preservation of Igbo culture. He personally hosted the “Iri Ji Ọkwáka Amichi” (New Yam Festival), which became a unifying annual event for the community. He used this platform to showcase Igbo traditions and boost local economic activity through tourism and trade.

Notably, he played a major role in organizing and supporting the 2024 edition of the Amichi Asala Festival, a significant cultural celebration held every ten years. The festival, which features the iconic cow parade and masquerade displays, drew dignitaries and thousands of natives from around the world. Chief Umeh’s voice, presence, and coordination were instrumental in the festival’s success, a proud moment in his final year.

Development Projects and Legacy in Amichi

Beyond culture, Chief Umeh was central to real development projects in Amichi. He facilitated road constructions, most notably the long-demanded Ichida–Akwaihedi–Amichi 22km road, which helped to boost trade and reduce transportation barriers for the town.

He worked to improve infrastructure in schools, churches, and town halls. His influence helped connect Amichi to government-led initiatives, and he served as a bridge between the grassroots and state leadership.

Philanthropy and Youth Empowerment

Chief Umeh’s philanthropic spirit defined much of his personal life. He quietly supported educational scholarships for underprivileged students, paid medical bills for the sick, and sponsored widows’ empowerment schemes. Youths from Amichi regularly benefited from his mentorship, business support, and job placements.

Through consistent generosity, he empowered countless families and individuals, many of whom publicly shared stories of his kindness after his passing.

Business and Private Sector Engagement

While active in public affairs, Chief Umeh also maintained a presence in the private sector, using his business experience to support local entrepreneurs. He was involved in supply chains, retail business, and real estate development, always with an eye on how his ventures could benefit his community.

Final Days and Transition

Despite facing health challenges including a stroke in 2022, Chief Umeh continued to attend community events and political gatherings. He was present at the APGA primary election just days before his death, and shortly prior had helped coordinate aspects of the Amichi Asala Festival,  his final public cultural role.

On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, he passed away at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital in Awka. The news, first widely shared on the “Amichi My Town My Pride” Facebook page, triggered an outpouring of grief and tributes from across Nigeria.

Legacy of a Hero

Chief Maja Umeh left an indelible mark on Amichi, Anambra State, and Igboland. From infrastructure to festivals, education to politics, his life’s work was rooted in service. His legacy is not only in roads or offices but in the hearts of those he helped, the culture he upheld, and the pride he restored in being Igbo.

He was not just a man of titles, he was a man of impact. And as Amichi mourns, it also honors one of its finest sons.

Rest in peace, Ọkwáka n’Anya Amichi. Your footprints will never fade.