Investment Banker and entrepreneur, Tony Elumelu, has donated 1,800 bags of rice to households in Onicha-Uku, Aniocha North local government of Delta state.
Some of those who benefitted from the gesture by the economist, philanthropist and architect of the famous Tony Elumelu Foundation included: The 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.
Excited leaders of the different groups and elders were also at the country home of the Elumelus on Sunday to express their appreciation of the donation of the staple food.
In a speech at a brief ceremony, where leaders of the different groups took turns to eulogise and pray for the donor and his family, Elumelu said that he had always derived joy in offering a hand of support to others, particularly in his ancestral community. He charged the people to make giving and unity their watchwords always.
He promised to continue to 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 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 spirit 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. We encourage everyone to embrace this spirit of giving and unity, not just during Christmas but in our everyday lives.”
Speaking on behalf of the people, the traditional ruler of the community, Agbogidi Agbamuche, represented by Chief Steve Osakwe, the Ede of Onicha-Uku, described the ceremony as special.
He noted that 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.
“This initiative reflects the values Elumelu embodies: hard work, generosity, and the unshakeable belief that when we lift others, we rise together.”
Some of the leaders of the different benefiting groups, including a member of Onicha-Uku Traditional Council, the Ede of Onicha Uku, Osakwe, the Provost, College of Nursing, Mrs Ngozi Olise and community youth leader, Mr Hilary Okechukwu Okonkwo and Okonji Elumelu of Ishiekpe Village, expressed appreciation for the generous Yuletide gesture.
They urged the people to emulate Elumelu’s spirit of always giving a helping hand and lifting others.
