By Sharon Akuboh
The proprietress of Estrellas International Academy, Wumba, Apo, has called on President Ahmed Tinubu to Declare State of Emergency on Food.
It is with great pleasure and honour that I welcome you to this very important occasion of the Estrellas 11th Speech and Prize Giving Day / Graduation Ceremony, to celebrate the efforts of the children and families.
It is no longer news that since January 2013, Estrellas has been producing outstanding leaders in our society and outside the shores of Nigeria.
The LOVE OF GOD is our key motivator in grooming our learners. The LOVE OF GOD coupled with professionalism has been the bedrock of our development, through the tireless effort of the members of staff towards the learners, by which the learners can surmount daring challenges.
Therefore, the Estrellas graduands and learners, have come with the heart of gratitude to appreciate God and everyone, saying that “WE MADE IT”.
The children are here today to warmly entertain and celebrate the parents who have made this happen also. We say thank you!
In furtherance of our celebration, I crave the indulgence of the parents to understand with the school, concerning the financial difficulties encountered this season, as some of our funds have gone into the school running cost due to the high rate of inflation hitting over 300% and it has made it difficult to make our usual sumptuous delicacies and gift packages usually distributed to everyone at such event as this. We understand how you feel and we promise to make it up as God strengthens us with your cooperation.
Therefore, I use this opportunity to appeal to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on food production and distribution. I also plead with Mr President to sign a law with a decree of free education for every Nigerian child from Pre-Basic to Basic 9, otherwise known as JSS 3, since we now have the 9-3-4 system. Food security and good education will curb a lot of menace in the country. For instance, someone that is well fed with sound education cannot be cajoled or manipulated to destroy his own dear country. Nigeria will be great again!
Having understood our circumstance, I have no doubt that our children will be accorded all the support with motivation in the activities of today.
I hereby welcome you to this event while declaring it open.
I thank you all.
Amb. Rebecca Bolanle Ukpevo
Proprietress