THE renowned Nigerian economist, investmemt banker and philanthropist, and architect of the famous Tony Elumelu Foundation donated 1,800 bags of rice to the seven traditional quarters of Onicha-Uku.
The Onicha-Uku royal palace and council of chiefs, elders, faith-based organisations including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) as well as various socio-cultural and youth groups also benefited from the Elumelu gesture.
Excited leaders of the different groups and elders were at the country home of the Elumelu’s on Sunday to profusely express their appreciation of the donation of the popular but currently expensive cerea I’ll and staple food in the country.
In a keynote speech at a brief ceremony, where leaders of the different groups took turns to eulogize and pray for the donor and his family, Elumelu said that that he has always derived joy in offering a hand of support to others, particularly in his ancestral community, charging the pople to make giving and unity their watchword always.
He promised to continue strive to empower youths and lend a helping hand in lifting up others around him with the resources that God has blessed him with.
Elumelu, who was represented by the Head, Media and External Relations of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Nasir Ramon, thanked the people for their profuse expression of gratitude and urged them to continue to share with one another in the true spirt of love and togetherness.
Ramon further remarked: “Tony Elumelu embodies hard work, generosity and the unshakeable belief that when we lift others, we rise together”, urging the people to imbibe the spirit of unity and communal love.
“We encourage everyone to embrace this spirit of giving and unity, not just during Christmas but in our everyday lives”, he said.
Speaking on behalf of the people, the traditional ruler of the community, HRM Agbogidi Michael Agbamuche, represented by Chief Steve Osakwe, the Ede of Onicha-Uku, described the ceremony as special and “a remarkable gesture of giving back by one of our own – an icon of excellence, philanthropy, and hope, our benefactor, Tony Elumelu, ‘a son of the soil’ who has remained steadfast in his commitment to empowering communities and changing lives.
He noted that Tony Elumelu has remained humble, caring and committed to his roots despite his remarkable success and towering personality globally, always giving back to his own people at the grassroots.
He said: “Today we gather to celebrate the spirit of Christmas – a season of love, kindness, and generosity. This event is a testament to the deep commitment of Tony Elumelu to his roots, his people, and his vision for a better and brighter future for all. He has not only made an indelible mark on the global stage but continues to impact lives right here in his hometown.
“Permit me to recognise and appreciate our special guests who have graced this occasion. A round of applause for our community leaders, spiritual leaders, elders, and youth who are present.
“Today’s event is about sharing, caring, and ensuring that no table is left without the joy of Christmas. The distribution of rice is a simple but profound gesture of love – a way of ensuring that families in this community enjoy the festive season with dignity and happiness.
“This initiative reflects the values Elumelu embodies: hard work, generosity, and the unshakeable belief that when we lift others, we rise together.
“Let us take a moment to reflect on this act of kindness. It reminds us that giving back, no matter how small, makes the world a better place. As we receive these gifts today, let us also commit to being a blessing to others in whatever way we can.”
Some of the leaders of the different benefiting groups, including a member of Onicha-Uku Traditional Council, the Ede of Onicha Uku, Chief Steve Osakwe, the Provost, College of Nursing, Mrs Ngozi Olise and community youth leader, Mr Hilary Okechukwu Okonkwo and ‘Diokpa’ Okonji Elumelu of Ishiekpe Village, expressed appreciation for the generous Yuletide gesture, recalling the immense contribution of the continental investment banker to general development of Onicha-Uku over the years.