A group under the aegis of South-South Chiefs, Elders and Opinion Leaders Association of Nigeria (SSCEOLAN) recently honoured some illustrious sons and daughters of the region for what they called their patriotism, contributions and philanthropy in the society.
Those honoured included Dr. (Mrs) Seinye O. B. Lulu-Briggs of the O. B. Lulu Briggs Foundation; Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, General Overseer of the Omega Power Ministries (OPM); an Enterprenuer, Engr. Tein Fubara Jack-Rich and Dr. (Mrs) Constance W. Amadi of the Minds Development Initiative (MDI).
Speaking at the NBA hall, Port Harcourt venue of the event, the National Chairman/Director of the association; High Chief (Dr.) Omubo A. Harry (JP) said its mission and objectives is to proffer socio-economic transformation within the grassroot of the South-South States of Nigeria in partnership with the philanthropic establishments within and outside the states of the Niger Delta in order to eradicate poverty among the less privileged of the region as well as to help create sustainable development at the grassroots level of the rural dwellers of the South-South states.
“The vision of the association, Dr. Harry noted, is to build a South-South region that is truly united, secured and prosperous with boundless opportunities for everyone who lives in it to peacefully pursue their goals and realize their full potential”.
The national chairman further disclosed that the vision is also to actualize the aspiration of the people of the region for a balance development and enhanced quality of life for the present and future generation.
He added that the association will continue to search for Organisations and individuals who shares with their vision for partnership purposes.
Earlier, chairman of the occasion and Amayanabo of Twon-Brass, HRM King Alfred Diete Spiff said it is important people come together once in a while to celebrate in appreciation to God Almighty.
The Chairman who was represented by the group’s Grand Patron and Royal Father of the day, HRH, Obong (Dr.) Essien Udo Ekadem, Nti Song Ibibio III made it clear that the group was borne out of its desire to contribute to the transformation of the region and advised on the need for unity of purpose to achieve set goals.
He praised the awardees for the honour done them, saying that they were actually identified and distinguished for reaching out to the less privileged in the society with their fortunes and prayed God to continue to sustain their endeavours.
Highpoint of the ceremony was a public lecture by a resource person on what he called “the missing link” in the fight against poverty.
He advocated for a paradigm shift to involvement of the communities directly in the development efforts.
According to him, “a new arrangement that would recognize communities as equal members in governance is what will help solve the challenges”, he stated.
Other highpoints were the Awards presentation to the identified distinguished personalities and cutting of the cake by members of the high table to cement the celebration.
