The Omamode Ladies Association has presented a 7.5kva solar system to Orem Orphanage Home, Afiesere Town in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.
It was donated through the collaborative efforts of the Ughelli and United States of America (USA) branches of the Omamode Ladies Association, the solar system was commissioned in a brief but colourful ceremony at the Home on Sunday, May 5, 2024.
In her speech on the occasion, Deaconess (Mrs) Oyiborhorho Queen, President of the Ughelli branch, reiterated that the body is passionate about the less privileged and carries out all its activities towards alleviating their situation with joy.
“Omamode is a non-political, non-governmental organisation. We are social and philanthropic individuals who are for the betterment and development of Urhobo land through selfless efforts. It’s noteworthy to announce that through the effort of our members in the diaspora, we have achieved a lot in meeting the above objectives, ” Mrs Oyiborhorho Queen said.
The Ughelli branch president continued that the Association, in times past, have donated mattresses, plastic chairs, buckets and sets of wheelchairs to Ughelli/Agbarho Central Hospital on different occasions.
“We visited the Old People’s Home, Warri and other Orphanage Homes in Town. Recently, Omamode equally presented a key to a ten+room toilet block to the Principal, students and the community leaders of Okpare Grammar School, Okpare-Olomu here in Delta State…”Mrs. Oyiborhorho informed.
Mrs. Julie Riesa, President of the USA branch, who cut the tape and commissioned the 7.5kva Solar system, in her address, explained that Omamode Ladies Association’s connection with Orem Orphanage runs deep. “For years, we’ve shared joyous moments with the children during our annual Christmas parties, providing them with not just gifts, but with love and companionship.
Yet, in our interactions, we couldn’t ignore the challenges faced by the orphanage, particularly the issue of unreliable electricity supply.”
Mrs Riesa, who is a foundation member of the association further said, that recognizing the vital role of consistent power in providing a safe and nurturing environment for the children, Omamode Ladies Club, in collaboration with our Ughelli Branch, embarked on a mission to address this pressing need. “Today, we proudly present to Orem Orphanage a gift that will illuminate their future: solar power supply.”
She continued “With the installation of these solar panels, we aim to eliminate the discomforts and deficiencies of the past, ensuring that the orphanage can operate efficiently and sustainably for years to come. We hope that this contribution will not only ease the burden on the orphanage but also inspire others to join us in supporting their noble cause.’
Speaking to the media, the Proprietor of Orem Orphanage Home, Proprietor
Simon-Peter Ezomon expressed gratitude to the Association for the presentation.
His words: “Words are inadequate to express our gratitude for what they have done for us. I want to tell you something for a fact, before the solar system was installed, we had a daily fuel purchase of about N4,000 (Four thousand Naira) then it went up to N6,000 (Six thousand Naira), but since the solar system was installed we seldom buy fuel daily, because once there is good sunlight during the day, the solar system charges and at night we use it to power everything that we need to power.
“They bailed us out of a lot. So, we are very elated, we are very grateful. God will bless them.”
Also commending the initiative of the association, Chief Tony Ikomoni, a political and community leader, who was a guest at the occasion used the medium to call on well-meaning individuals and corporate bodies to assist Orphanages as a social responsibility.
“The truth is that light is a huge challenge, power is a huge challenge and every business suffers because of lack of it in Nigeria.
The government has seemingly failed so far, maybe they will come up to do a little better than this. So that calls for people like Omamode Ladies Association to lend a helping hand to this Orphanage to help them go through the challenges. They have things to do with light
“They have things to do with power. Without it, nothing will be functional. So, Omamode has come to do this, and I think every well-meaning organisation and corporate body should look at that as a social responsibility, and do more and even other things not only for this Orphanage but for numerous others around, to anyone close to their neighbourhood.
“Even well-meaning people, as individuals can lend a hand to support them, in clothing, in companionship, in celebrating with them. I think it is a good thing to do, so I encourage all and sundry to do this,” Chief Tony Ikomoni said.
The event witnessed children of the Orphanage dancing to appreciate the donors and entertain the gathering.
Present at the ceremony were Chief E. I. Imoni-Kugbere (eldest Patron), and Engr. Oyiborhorho Augustine Arigo (Patron and Member of the Board of Trustees).
Others are veteran journalist, Mr Kenneth Young-Emretiyoma; Mrs Ohwovorione Uruemuesiri, Onome Ikomoni, Mrs Ruona Izeze, Lady Felicia Onajite Erhusere, and Mr. Efe Ikomoni.
Also present were Mrs.Tina Ebresafe, Mrs Ekakitie Joy, Mrs Erechovwe Precious, Mr Inore Famous, Mr O. R. Avworhare, Revd. Israel Ufuoma Erechovwe, Miller Kingsley. and others.
Member of the Association who witnessed the presentation include Mrs. Silver Evwharmre (Vice President), Mrs. M.K.O. Ajobo (speaker), Mrs. Anuwhin (Elder), Mrs. Erakora, Mrs. P. Odjighoro, and Mrs. Hope Itefa (Fin sec).
