By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
Ebony State indegenes resident in Bauchi state under the umbrella of Ebonyi State Development Association on Sunday did groundbreaking of the construction of a Civic Centre to serve as a hub for social and commercial activities.
The Association also recognised and gave award to some outstanding members who contributed massively and impactfully to the well-being of its members during the year 2024.
The occasion was the end of the year 2024 Celebration, Award Giving, and Groundbreaking Ceremony organized by the Ebonyi State Development Association held on Sunday, 10th November, 2034 at Kapo International Hotel and Suites, Bauchi.
In his welcome remarks, Comrade Rotrian Awoke Fabian, President, Ebonyi State Development Association, Bauchi stated that, “This year has been a remarkable one for our Association. Together we have achieved significant milestones, and we have made great strides in strengthening the bonds that onite us.”
He stressed that, “As we gather this evening to celebrate these accomplishments, I want to highlight some of the recorded achievements that have defined this year. It included growth in Membership and Engagement.”
According to him, “We have welcomed many of our members into our community, expanding our reach and deepening our impact. The enthusiasm and dedication of our members have been only inspiring, and together we have fostered a spirit of collaboration and unity.”
On Successful Programs and initiatives, the President stated that,”We launched several programmes aimed at empowering our members and giving back to our community. From educational workshops to mentorship opportunities, we have supported professional development, personal growth, and social well- being. One of our proudest t initiatives was our empowerment which positively impacted many lives.”
On Partnerships and Collaborations, he disclosed that,”Through strategic partnership, we have been able to enhance our resources and extend our influence through collaborations with local businesses, government agencias and other organizations, these partnerships have been key to our members.”
He also mentioned Community Outreach and Service stating that,”This year, our outreach programmes reached new heights, with our members actively involved in charity work, volunteering, and giving back to the community in countless ways. It is clear that our collective commitment to making a difference has had a tangible, positive effect.”
“But, perhaps, the most exciting achievement of all is the project we are about to embark on today: the construction of our Civic Center. This project is not just a building; it is a symbol of our Association’s vision for the future. It will serve as a hub for activities, a place for members to connect, learn, and grow, and a space that will empower us to continue our work for many years to come,” he added.
According to him,”With the groundbreaking of the Civic Center today, we are not only laying the foundation for a physical structure, but also for the continued success and progress of this Association.”
The President stressed that, “This center will stand as a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with purpose and determination. It will be a beacon of our values-community, service, and empowerment.”
Nwoke Fabian added that, “As we celebrate tonight, let us also take a moment to acknowledge the extraordinary individuals who have made this possible. The dedication and hard work of our volunteers, leaders, and members have been instrumental in our success.”
“And tonight, we will honor some of those individuals who have gone above and beyond in their contributions. We will present awards to those whose passion, perseverance, and commitment have made a lasting impact on our Association and our community,” he added.
He added that,”I want to thank each and every one of you for your support over the past year. It is because of your dedication that we have reached these incredible milestones. Let us look forward to the future with hope, excitement, and an unwavering commitment to the values that bind us together.”
He concluded stressing that,”Thank you once again for being here to celebrate with us. Together, we are building something truly special. The best is yet to come. Long live Ebonyi State Development Association”.
While leading the traditional breaking of kolanus, the Eze Igbo of Bauchi, Igwe Jude Ifeanyi Umezike, commended indegenes of Ebonyi State resident in Bauchi state for peaceful coexistence with the host community as well as other residents of the state.
The Eze Igbo of Bauchi also described the Ebonyi state indegenes as hardworking and industrious people who have contributed immensely to trade and commerce in Bauchi state.
He therefore commended the Association’s leadership for thinking of having a civic centre which he said will further cement their relationship with the host and other communities urging them to ensure the actualization of the project.
All other speakers at the event, commended the leadership of the Association for embarking on the project saying that it will foster more unity among the members.
