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By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
In their usual manner, last Saturday, members of G-Friends Thrift Society visited the Centre for Destitute Empowerment International, Ejigbo, Lagos State, to show love to the inmates. The group presented cash, bags of rice, cartons of noodles, toiletries and clothing, among others, to the centre.
In his remarks, the chairman of G-Friends, Mazi Cyril Okemuo, said: “I stand before you today with a profound sense of gratitude and purpose. As G-Friends Thrift Society gather here, united by our vision of a compassionate and equitable society, we commemorate an act of kindness that goes beyond words. Today, G-Friends Thrift Society celebrate the spirit of giving and the power of collective action as we come together to donate gifts to less privileged people.
“In a world that often seems divided, it is heartening to witness the unity and empathy displayed in this room. The act of giving in its purest form embodies the core values of humanity: compassion, love and solidarity. It is through our actions that we can truly make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
“The gifts G-Friends Thrift Society donate today are not merely material possessions. They are symbols of hope and tangible expressions of our care for our fellow human beings. A gift has the power to uplift spirits, inspire dreams, and bring joy to those who feel forgotten or overlooked. By extending our generosity, G-Friends Thrift Society is creating opportunities for positive change and fostering a sense of belonging within our community.
“While our gifts may vary in shape and size, they all share a common thread: the intent to brighten someone’s day and plant seeds of hope. Whether it is a warm blanket to ward off the cold, a book to ignite the imagination, or a toy to spark laughter in a child’s eyes, our contributions have the potential to create ripples of positivity that extend far beyond this event.
“Today, G-Friends Thrift Society also acknowledge that this act of giving is not a solitary endeavour. It is the result of collaboration, kindness and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. I am immensely grateful to each and every one of us for our contributions, be it through donations, volunteering, or lending your voice to raise awareness about the needs of the less privileged. Together, G-Friends Thrift Society are rewriting the narrative and building a future where no one is left behind.
“Let this gathering serve as a reminder that philanthropy is not confined to a single event but is a lifelong pursuit. It is a call to action to weave empathy into the fabric of our daily lives, extending kindness to those we encounter, and creating a ripple effect of compassion that transcends borders and boundaries.
“As G-Friends Thrift Society move forward from this event, let us carry the spirit of giving in our hearts. Let us stay committed to creating a more equitable and just society, where the less privileged receive the support and opportunities they deserve. By harnessing our collective resources, leveraging our networks, and nurturing the spark of giving within ourselves, G-Friends Thrift Society can continue to transform lives and make a lasting impact.
“Thank you, each and every one of you, for being part of this incredible journey. Your generosity and dedication inspire me, and I’m truly honored to stand alongside you. Together, let us build a brighter, more compassionate future for all.”
An official of the centre received the gifts with so much gratitude. She prayed that God should continue to bless members of the association.
The former chairman of G-Friends, Mazi Fidelis Okpoko, told Daily Sun: “Great -Friends Thrift Society is an association of friends of like minds. It is built on love for members and the needy. We save for the future.
“At a time like this, we dedicate it to visit those who cannot provide for themselves and those that look after them. Christmas is a season of love and happiness. This is made to remember them. This is a double event in a year for this noble association, Lenten and Christmas season. These visits bring joy and happiness each time we are with them.
“This gesture has not gone unrewarded to members and the society at large. A lot of testimonies have been noticed by members always, as a result of the visitations.
“We encourage individuals and organizations to try and do same around their environment and beyond.
Let’s shower love on the less privileged.”
