ARISE AND BUILD: Anthony Uchenna Shadrach Emerges Winner Of Vision Africa Radio 2025 Icons Music Reality Show

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It was a Sunday of glamour, grace, and great music at the Jubilee Auditorium of the Mater Dei Cathedral, Umuahia, as Anthony Uchenna Shadrach was crowned the winner of the 2025 Vision Africa Radio Icons Music Reality Show (Season 12), walking away with the grand prize of one million naira.

The prestigious competition, themed “Arise and Build,” brought together young, aspiring artistes from across Abia State and beyond for the twelfth edition of the annual talent discovery and empowerment programme founded by Archbishop (Prof.) Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, President of Vision Africa International.

In his inspiring address, Archbishop Onuoha explained that the initiative was conceived to nurture a new generation of musicians, especially in the gospel genre. He emphasized the need to train today’s youth to surpass the excellence of past generations and become instruments of transformation in their communities.

“This programme is not just about music; it is about building the minds and morals of our young people to become mightier than those of old,” he said, praying for divine blessings upon all who contribute to building a better society.

The Chairman of the Occasion, and Special Adviser to the Abia State Governor on Policies and Interventions, Rev. Fr. Christian Anokwuru (PhD), in his goodwill message, commended Archbishop Onuoha for his tireless commitment to youth development and human capital growth. He described the Icons Show as a platform of purpose that helps young people discover, refine, and project their God-given talents.

 “I am happy to see our youths performing so excellently. In a few6 years, many of them will become music stars celebrated across the world,” he remarked, pledging continued support for such uplifting initiatives.

The star-studded panel of adjudicators—Dame Uzoma Ugonma Nkulo (KCW), Minister Buchi Atuonwu, Mr. Desmond Anokwuru, and Mr. Ogbonnaya Ogwo (Mr. Sleek)—commended the contestants for their artistry and growth throughout the show.
Rev. Sleek Ogwo, composer of the Abia Anthem, explained that the judges focused on vocal strength, range, breath control, stage management, and musical interpretation, among other key performance metrics.

Speaking further, gospel icon Minister Buchi Atuonwu described the Vision Africa Icons initiative as a strong bridge for future musicians, praising its consistency in uncovering fresh talent over the years. In a heartwarming gesture, he offered free studio recordings to three contestants as part of his encouragement for rising stars.

At the end of the tightly contested finale, Anthony Uchenna Shadrach clinched the top spot and the ₦1,000,000 cash prize, followed by Udoofia Edet (₦700,000) in second place, and Stephen Chinyere (₦500,000) in third place. The remaining seven finalists each received ₦100,000, while the three participants who did not make it to the top ten but performed during the show were rewarded with ₦50,000 each—all courtesy of Archbishop Onuoha’s benevolence.

In his victory remarks, the visibly emotional winner, Anthony Shadrach, thanked Archbishop Onuoha and Vision Africa for the life-changing opportunity.

> “I was the president of our camp during training, and we shared beautiful memories together. Through hard work and God’s mercy, I am grateful to emerge as the winner,” he said.

The Vision Africa Icons Music Reality Show has, over the years, evolved into a leading platform for talent discovery, mentorship, and empowerment, placing Umuahia and Abia State firmly on the map as a hub for youth creativity and positive transformation.

Beyond entertainment, the programme continues to invest in young Nigerians—providing them with financial support, professional guidance, and exposure that strengthen the cultural and economic landscape of the region.

As the curtain fell on Season 12, one message rang clear through the chords of music and melody: Vision Africa is building dreams, raising voices, and shaping destinies—one song at a time.