Abia State Governor Alex Otti has earmarked a budget of ₦18.9bn to support vulnerable individuals in the state as part of his administration’s efforts to improve the welfare of the less privileged.
The governor disclosed this on Saturday during the commissioning of a fully furnished three-bedroom bungalow built by the founder of Ogechi Cares Foundation, Chief Jerry Uzosike, for Mrs. Abigail Nwosu Ocha of Eluama Na Mgbedeala Umunwanwa Autonomous Community in Umuahia South Local Government Area.
Speaking on behalf of the governor at the commissioning ceremony which coincided with the 5th anniversary of the Ogechi Cares Foundation, Rev. Christian Anokwuru, Special Adviser on Policies and Interventions, praised Chief Uzosike for his dedication to empowering youths, women, and vulnerable individuals, aligning with the administration’s humanitarian agenda.
“Since he is identifying with the poor and the downtrodden, which is part of the major mandate of this administration, we’ll use the government apparatus to assist him.
“The CSDA is championing this type of cause, and we will leverage that agency to ensure additional support from the governor,” Rev. Anokwuru stated.
In his address, Chief Jerry Uzosike, the Grand Commander of Ogechi Cares Foundation and a commissioner in the Local Government Service Commission, revealed that the foundation has constructed eight houses for vulnerable individuals, empowered youths and women through skill acquisition, awarded scholarships, and provided other social amenities.
“My kind of public service is one that enjoys doing good things for people which make them happy. Your Excellency, the house you are commissioning today is the number 8 and your excellency, we are not stopping here.
“You may not know but we have two more houses that are in different levels of conclusion,” Uzosike said.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the beneficiary’s family, Mrs. Uloma Ukandu and Sir Nwosu Ocha praised Chief Uzosike for his generosity and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable families.
The Whistler reports that the event also featured an awards ceremony to honor individuals who have supported the foundation and the launch of a skill acquisition program sponsored by NKU Global Foundation.
“The programme was inaugurated by the Mayor of Umuahia South LGA, Mr. Chinedum Enwereuzo, alongside the governor’s representative.