NDDC Officials Urge Corporate Support For The Elderly After Charitable Visit

Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has called on organisations and wealthy individuals to increase support for underprivileged citizens, following a donation to a Port Harcourt home for the elderly.

The appeal came during a visit to the Catholic Church-run facility by NDDC officials led by Executive Director of Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, to mark his 70th birthday.

The visit, which included NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, and other commission directors, saw the donation of substantial food items including rice, beans, yam, noodles, and toiletries, along with an undisclosed sum of cash.

The generous contribution is intended to alleviate the challenges faced by the elderly residents.

Hon. Abegunde, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve, urged privileged members of society and corporations to extend a helping hand to those in need.

He emphasised the importance of supporting vulnerable populations.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Iyaye stressed the critical role of organizations in partnering with the church to care for the elderly, advocating for the creation of support schemes for the weak and poor.

He also lauded Hon. Abegunde’s extensive contributions to public service, community development, and good governance, describing him as a humanist whose compassion has touched numerous lives in the Niger Delta.

Rev. Sister Mary Jane Raphael, patron of the Home for the Elderly, expressed deep gratitude for the NDDC’s donation, stating it would significantly improve the facility’s ability to feed its residents.

She also appealed to the commission for assistance with essential infrastructure upgrades.

Chief Tony Okocha, the NDDC Board representative from Rivers State, further praised Hon. Abegunde’s legacy of philanthropy and unwavering commitment to societal growth, describing his life as a testament to resilience and purposeful leadership.

He highlighted Abegunde’s tireless efforts to uplift the less privileged and emphasised his inspiring example of integrity, excellence, and selfless service.

The visit underscores the NDDC’s commitment to social responsibility and its call to action for broader engagement in supporting vulnerable communities within the Niger Delta region.