By Sunny A. David, Onitsha
In a significant act of community support, Margaret Peter-Obi, wife of Peter Obi, distributed N30 million to 300 women in Agulu town.
The funds, disbursed as N100,000 cheques to 15 women from each of the town’s 20 villages, aim to bolster their small businesses.
Mrs. Obi framed the initiative as a gesture of solidarity during a period of widespread economic hardship.
Speaking at the event, attendees lauded the Obis’ consistent commitment to Agulu, citing past initiatives including vehicle donations and long-term scholarship programs.
Community leaders emphasized the largely private nature of the Obi’s philanthropic efforts, which have spanned over four decades.
Beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude, highlighting the timely nature of the assistance in preventing business closures following the Christmas holiday spending.
Speaking during the event, Barr. Emily Enemuoh, the Chairperson, Udoka Micro Finance Bank, who with Barr. Olive Obi accompanied Mrs. Obi, expressed her delight in being part of the occasion. She advised the beneficiaries to use the money wisely and carry out their businesses with honesty, assuring them of better days ahead.
The President-General of the town, Mr. Oliver Afamefuna, praised the Obis for their continued commitment to the people of Agulu. He said, “Although the Obis are national and international figures, they have never stopped identifying with their community, especially during trying times.”
The Onowu of the town and former President-General, Chief Paulinus Anagboso, who recalled the massive empowerment initiatives by Mr. Peter Obi for the town involving vehicles, Kekes and motorcycles also thanked Mrs. Obi for her gesture.
He noted how the Obis have consistently supported the people of Agulu, even during their late mother’s time and further highlighted that over 70% of what the Obis do for the community, such as providing scholarships for indigent students over the past 40 years, is done privately.
The Woman Leader, Mrs. Margaret Ejike, thanked Mrs. Margaret Peter-Obi, and her husband, for their kind gestures and urged the women to make effective use of the money.
One of the beneficiaries from Obe Village, Mrs. Ann Agwubike, expressed immense gratitude, stating that the financial support had “literally resurrected” some people. She added, “After depleting our trading capital during the Christmas season, this timely gesture will save many businesses from collapse.”
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.