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By Uche Okobi
For the people of Asaba, Delta State, based in Lagos, as well as their friends and well-wishers, the recent gathering of members of Women’s Wing of the Asaba Development Union, ADU to mark the 75th anniversary of the association was a good time to unite, unwind, introspect and plan for the future. The women also used the occasion to launch a N30 million appeal fund.
Amid glamour and pageantry at the ADU events hall 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 organizing the fund-raising event towards the completion of Asaba Hall, and the celebration of their 75 years as a union.
Ogbueshi Ashiogwu said he was delighted by the efforts of the President, Dr. Nkeiruka Taiye Williams, and hardworking chairperson of the anniversary committee, Emmanuella Ifeoma Adimkpaya, for organizing the event.
Going down memory lane, Ashiogwu revealed that ADU 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. Taiye Williams, in her address, recognized His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, a senior advocate, Asagba of Asaba, the Royal Father of the Day; and all other Ogbueshis and esteemed guests present.
She profusely thanked the Almighty God for the favour bestowed on the members and to be alive to celebrate a legacy that has spanned three quarters of a century.
Williams described the 75th year of ADU and the platinum anniversary of the Women’ Wing as “a historic and auspicious occasion, noting, “Our heart is full of gratitude and overflowing with joy.”
She said further: “Today, we are not just marking time, but honouring the vision, strength, sacrifice and enduring unity of Asaba women sojourning in Lagos.”
In her remarks, the president said: “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 Fund Raising 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 thanked the cultural troupe for bringing colour and glamour to the celebration as their performance was a reminder of the rich heritage of Asaba.
In a brief interview with the Sunday Sun, Ms Adimkpaya appreciated all the people who made donations despite the trying times.
