By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Nigeria’s most influential socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has fed 2,500 widows, physically challenged persons, non-indigenous communities and other residents of Calabar as part of its Christmas outreach in Cross River State.
The gesture was carried out by the President General of the State Chapter and Chairman of Peterson Electronics Group of Companies, High Chief Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu, on Tuesday.
Speaking to journalists during the distribution exercise, Egwuonwu said the gesture was aimed at appreciating God and the people of Cross River State for their support, while helping to cushion the effects of the prevailing economic hardship during the Yuletide season.
He explained that the outreach was inspired by his humble background and personal journey from poverty to success.
“Growing up, my father’s house was the headquarters of poverty in my community. But with time, God changed the narrative. God has been wonderful to my family and me, and this is my way of saying thank you to God and to Cross Riverians,” he said.
Egwuonwu added that the initiative was also linked to a personal vow he made after surviving a health crisis in 2023.
“When I was sick in 2023, I promised God that if I recovered, I would feed 1,000 people. But because God has been so generous to me, I decided to increase the number to 2,500 persons,” he stated.
He commended Governor Bassey Otu for creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive in the state, noting that Igbo people feel safe and welcomed in Cross River.
“This is my way of thanking Governor Bassey Otu for giving Igbos the opportunity to do business without harassment. I also appreciate government officials who have supported our various businesses,” he said, while encouraging residents to continue patronising local enterprises.
Wife of the donor, Mrs Charity Peterson, said the family’s Christmas celebration was an expression of gratitude to God for sparing her husband’s life and protecting the family from several near-death experiences.
“Christmas celebration with Cross Riverians and Igbos has always been our culture. My husband loves giving, and we support him fully. What we are doing today is a thanksgiving to God for saving his life and preserving our family,” she said.
She urged Nigerians to embrace peace, love and unity, especially in view of the challenges facing the country.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr Edem Archibong, described Egwuonwu as a committed philanthropist with a passion for giving back to society.
“Chief Peterson is a generous man who is always committed to helping others. I pray that God blesses him and his family,” he said.
Another beneficiary, Mr Ekpezu Ogbu, praised the initiative and called on other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the gesture.
Also speaking, the Chairperson of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Cross River State Chapter, Mrs Linda Rasheed, expressed appreciation to the benefactor for empowering her members.
“On behalf of POWA in Cross River State, we pray that God will reward him abundantly for giving back to society,” she said.
