Igbo Community President in Jos, donates borehole, bows out

Nigeria

The President General, Igbo Community Association (ICA), Jos,  Chief Mike Okunonke, has donated a borehole to a host community housing the apex Jos Igbo association meeting centre.

Okunonke described the initiative as part of its legacy project, aimed at providing clean and accessible water to its host, in alignment with a vow made to God to grant him not just a successful tenure, but an impactful one.

Speaking at the commissioning over the weekend, Okunonke said the gesture will ensure that people will access free water in the area, adding that at no time should anyone collect money to dispense water.

“My tenure will expire in a week’s time, hence it became imperative to commission this project in line with the promise made to God for a rancor free tenure”, he said.

He lauded ICA members who played a role in  ensuring that the implanting of the borehole was a success.

Commenting on the project, the Jos North Local Government Council  Chairman, Barr. John Christopher, emphasised that the intervention reflects the Igbo spirit of  “Can Do It” mantra which is also a testament of how impactful the Igbo man has contributed to the development of the local government as we as the State in general.

The LG boss was quoted as saying, “In Jos North, we believe that establishment of businesses have a duty to play in the growth and development of the LG Council, that is why we have always lauded the resilience of the Igbo business sons and daughters for their contribution in boosting the economy of the Council and the State.

“We appreciate the gesture of citing the borehole in the Jos North Community to provide water to the underserved.

“One of the ways we are ensuring that people have access to basic amenities  is to ensure clean water and sanitation.

“This also aligns with the UN SDG 6 which states that access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene is the most basic human need for health and well-being”, he said.

Also speaking, a renowned Reverend in the State, Rev. Dr. Gideon Para-Mallam, who is also the President of the Gideon and Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation,

underscores a dedication to support community partners in meeting critical social needs. 

“This effort is one of the several touchpoints through which philanthropists give back to the communities. Water in localities ensures proper sanitation and healthy living”, he added.

Our correspondent reports that Okunonke recognised the  exco that served with him by issuing award certificates to them.