Asaba Development Union women’s wing holds 75th anniversary, fundraiser

The Asaba Development Union, Women’s Wing, Lagos branch, penultimate weekend, marked the 75th anniversary of the union and launched a N30 million appeal fund at the events hall of the Asaba Development Union (ADU), Women’s Wing, Lagos branch.

At the event, prominent sons and daughters of Asaba committed to working for the progress of their hometown.

In attendance were distinguished personalities, including Ogbueshi Nabo Chuck Nduka-Eze, Isama Ajei, chairman on the occasion, represented by Ogbueshi C.C. Ashiogwu; Her Royal Highness, Obi (Dr.) Ada Sunny Biosah, Omu of Asaba, Mother of the Day; Dr. (Mrs) Eugenia Nkeiruka Taiye Williams, president, Asaba Development Union, Women’s Wing, Lagos branch; and Mr. Chiedu Odiaka, represented by Tony Kerry Ikechukwu, among other distinguished personalities.

In his address, the chairman, Ogbueshi Ashiogwu, acknowledged the foresight and resilience of Asaba Development Union, Women’s Wing, Lagos branch, in their developmental drive in organising the fundraising event towards the completion of Asaba Hall, and the celebration of their 75 years as a union.

ADU, according to the chairman, began in 1926 in Kano, while the Lagos branch was formally inaugurated in 1948. It was later expanded into different units for easier management of members. The units are Ajegunle, Festac, Ikeja, lsolo/Ikotun, Lagos Island, Satellite, Surulere, Yaba and Ilupeju. Each unit has been active for both men and women who worked assiduously to sustain the vision of the founding fathers and mothers of the union.

Dr. Nkeiruka Taiye Williams, in her address, recognized His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, Asagba of Asaba, the Royal Father of the Day; and all other Ogbueshis and esteemed guests present.

Thereafter, she said, “With a heart full of gratitude and overflowing with joy, l welcome you all to this historic and auspicious occasion,  the 75th year and platinum anniversary of the  Asaba Development Union, Women’s Wing, Lagos. It is the grace and favour of God bestowed on us that has given us the opportunity  to celebrate a legacy that spans three quarters of a century.

“Today, we are not just marking time, but honouring the vision, strength, sacrifice and enduring unity of Asaba women  sojourning in Lagos.”

The president informed the audience that when the Women’s Wing was born, “Our mothers planted a seed of purpose, to unite the women of Asaba for development, peace and progress. That seed has grown into a mighty tree, and we are the proud products, still growing and bearing fruit.”

The ADU informed the audience that, for the past 75 years, the Women’s Wing has “touched many lives, supported widows, empowered the underprivileged, sponsored the education of our sons, daughters, wives, kept our town clean, our culture alive and voices strong in matters that concern our people.”

She appreciated all past presidents, executives and members who served the union with love and loyalty, and the foundation they laid for a stable future.

She equally thanked the present executive members for their hard work, sleepless nights, sacrifices of time, talent and treasure in making the anniversary celebration a worthy testimony of their commitment.

“Let us continue to empower women in Asaba through education, skills development, health advocacy and economic opportunities.

“I call on all our daughters and wives at home and in the diaspora, this is your union, heritage and future; join hands with us.”

The fund-raising event was hitch-free as the chief launcher, the chairman of the day and other personalities contributed to the success of the event.

In her vote of thanks, the chairperson of the 75th Anniversary and Fundraising Planning Committee, Ms Adimkpaya, appreciated the royal fathers and traditional rulers present for their blessings and support.

She equally appreciated guests, including Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze and Mr. Chinedu Odiaka, for gracing the celebration.

Ms Adimkpaya concluded by thanking the cultural troupe for bringing colour and glamour to the celebration as their performance was a reminder to Asaba’s rich heritage.

In a brief interview with the Sun, Ms Adimkpaya appreciated all that donated “in these trying times.”

She said the event, which was put together by the Planning Committee that she headed, was to raise funds to complete their hall project.