Nkechinyere Ewa
The Special Assistant to the Ebonyi State Governor on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Barr. Maryann Nkwegu, has brought Christmas cheer to aged persons and villagers of Ndiebor Ishioku Amachi in Abakaliki Local Government Area as part of activities marking the Yuletide season.
Speaking during the celebration, Barr. Nkwegu urged the beneficiaries to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), describing it as a civic duty and a way of supporting the people-oriented administration of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.
She said the outreach was aimed at sharing love, promoting inclusiveness and putting smiles on the faces of the elderly and less-privileged members of society during the Christmas season.
According to her, Christmas represents love, compassion and giving, noting that aged persons deserve care, respect and support, especially at a time when many are often neglected.
Barr. Nkwegu explained that the initiative aligns with the leadership philosophy of Governor Nwifuru, who has consistently prioritised social welfare, human dignity and the protection of vulnerable groups across Ebonyi State.
A community stakeholder, Mr. John Nwiboko, expressed gratitude to Barr. Nkwegu for remembering the aged and villagers of Ndiebor Ishioku Amachi during the festive period.
He commended the governor’s aide for the thoughtful gesture and prayed for God’s blessings upon her and the administration of Governor Nwifuru, describing the celebration as timely and impactful.
Mr. Nwiboko, however, lamented the persistent water scarcity in the community and appealed to the state government for intervention. He also called for the rehabilitation of the community road to ease the transportation of farm produce.
Some beneficiaries, including Mrs. Mary John, Mr. James Nwambam and Mr. Simon Ogbaga, praised the initiative, saying it brought joy, renewed hope and a strong sense of belonging to the aged and villagers of Ndiebor Ishioku Amachi.