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From Uchenna Inya, Abakaliki
In 1975, a group of like-minded individuals in one of the most developed towns in the southern part of Ebonyi State, Uburu, driven by the need to socialize, heal from challenging times, and foster unity and development, formed an elite organization known as Adu Social Club of Nigeria (ASCON). Adu is another name for Uburu.
The founders also saw the club as a platform for intellectual engagement. Since then, the club has continued to stand tall, playing vital roles in community development and unity.
It has become a beacon of excellence, a true elite institution that has consistently lived up to expectation.
The club has been a silent and powerful force in giving back to society. From scholarship for indigent students to supporting healthcare initiatives and infrastructural projects, its charitable activities have been impactful and life-changing.
Many senior members of the club have dedicated their time to mentor the younger generation, providing guidance and support to help them navigate the complexities of life and business.
Every 26th day of December, the members gather together in the community to ensure it remains strong. This year, the club turned 50 and members celebrated the anniversary with pomp and ceremony. There was excitement in the community and the members wore blissful smiles. Memories are made of such.
Sons and daughters of the club who impacted positively on the community and society in general, were singled out and honoured.
In his address at the event, the National President of the club, Linus Odii Agwu explained that ASCON was found on the values of friendship, unity and community development.
“Today marks another important moment in our journey as a united and progressive family. The Adu Social Club of Nigeria was founded on the values of friendship, unity, and community development, and it is encouraging to see how far we have come through our collective effort.
“I deeply appreciate your presence, your support, and your commitment to the growth of our club. Together, we will continue to build a stronger bond, expand our impact and uphold the ideals brought us together,” he boldly told the members
One of those honoured at the event, Engr. Stanley Ngene, Ph.D described the honour as a motivation to impact on the community.
“Adu Social Club of Nigeria (ASCON) is an elite organization. It means a lot to us. Growing up, my father was a member and it brought brotherhood in a way that even as kids, we felt it.
“We saw members from different parts of Uburu relating as if they came from the same womb. So, it was Uburu’s strength then. If Uburu needed to undertake a project, it is ASCON they look forward to.
“Members of ASCON then were from different professions; they were professionals in different field that are of Uburu indigene. It was a way to socialize, especially at their Adu Day and usually, it is 26th December just like they did today.
“So, we remember as kids going to Adu social club every 26th December, maybe go with our fathers and then, we see what they do. They come together, the joy is there and they chart on what they will do for the town. It is always about what can we do for Uburu, how can we make Uburu better? How can we make a project, attract something to Uburu?
“And by the special grace of God, they did a lot, they gave scholarships to a lot of indigent students who are today doing well in different fields. They established some businesses, especially hand crafts and trained some technicians and there is no other way to develop a community than that
“This award Adu social club bestowed to me means a lot to me. It is an award that means that my people know that I exist. Secondly, it means that my effort is being appreciated.
“If an organization like Adu Social Club of Nigeria singles you out to give you an award, what it means is that there is something you are doing that is tickling their fancy and m, most especially, if you are doing things that will develop the community like scholarship in the way of education or helping younger ones to grow by mentoring or giving people seed to start businesses. So, those are the kind of things that when you do it, Adu Social Club must tell you thank you. It is a way of saying, you are doing well and we want you to do more,” he said.
Another award recipient, Osuji Amb. Robinson A. George-Obasi, who was recognized for his soul-lifting engagements, said he was delighted for the honour. He disclosed that the award will spur him to do more for the community and humanity.
George-Obasi said: “This award is simply an honour, it is an enabler because with this award, it shows that there are things that you are doing that the community is recognizing and what it means for me is that it will encourage me to do more.
“So, I am honoured, I am humbled to be appointed or nominated as one of the recipients. So, its an honour to me.
“ASCON is an age-long club. I was one year old when this club was formed. I was born in 1974 and this club was formed in 1975 and we hear of Adu Social Club. They have a hall and their day is always 26th of December and it is the creme de la creme of the town that are members of the club.
“I am glad that I saw one man here, who is a respected patron in this community. I saw him there, he is still healthy and he should be close to 100 years and he is still standing very strong and he has been part of Adu Social Club.
“So, Adu Social Club is an organization that people look unto. Those that are in the club are those that live above board, they are responsible, they are people that are of timber and caliber, they are people you respect when you need people to intervene on matters that affect the community. So, that’s what ASCON is all about. It is a social club that helps in building up people academically, socially and otherwise. So, I am proud that they found me worthy to receive this award today.”
A book written by Dr Jude Umahi on ASCON’s 50 years of existence was unveiled during the celebration.
Other illustrious awardees include the author of the book, Sir C.A.Oje aka Benimo (Adu legend), Dr. Queen Agwu (Adu Diamond), Prof. Jesse C. Uneke (Adu Ambassador), Christian Chukwu aka Bible (Adu Ambassador and Prof. Grace Umezurike, Secretary to Ebonyi State Government, (Adu Diamond).
Other awardees are Osuji Amb.Robinson A. George Obasi (Adu Ambassador), Engr. Nkemakolam C. Odii (Adu Ambassador), Mr. Ikenna Oji Nweze
(Adu Ambassador), Ogbuevi Ngene Kingsley Bash (Adu Ambassador), Prof. Agwu Ekwe Agwu (Adu Ambassador), HRH. Dr. Laz Umahi,
Eze Adu 3 (ASCON Royal Icon) and Osuji Igwe Charles Nwite (Adu Ambassador)
Also on the list are Osuji Ogbonnaya Charles Agwu (OGB) (Adu Ambassador), HRH.Godwin Akpandu Okoro, Ibom Eze 2 (ASCON Royal Host), Hon. Enekwachi Akpa (Adu Ambassador), Osuji Mathew Uzor
(Adu Ambassador) and Dr.Sir IG Akuma (Adu Ambassador).
