Renowned banker and philanthropist and global leader, Mr. Tony Elumelu on Sunday donated 1, 800 bags of rice to the people of Onicha-Uku, in Aniocha North LGA of Delta.
The event, which witnessed a large turnout of villagers, – youths, elderly and community leaders took place at his family home in Ishiekpe quarters, Onicha-Uku community
At the public presentation of the items, Elumelu, who is the chairman of UBA Group, was represented by Mr. Nasir Ramon, UBA’s Head of Media and External Relations,
In his remark, Elumelu said the donation is his little way of celebrating with his people in the spirit of the Christmas season.
“Good morning, distinguished guests, great members of Onicha-Uku Kingdom and all our well-wishers. It is an honor to welcome you to this special ceremony, a remarkable gesture of giving back to my people.
“Today we gather to celebrate the spirit of Christmas—a season of love, kindness, and generosity. Today’s event is about sharing, caring, and ensuring that no table is left without the joy of Christmas.
“The distribution of rice is a simple but profound gesture of love—a way of ensuring that families in this community enjoy the festive season with dignity and happiness”, he said.
According to him, the initiative reflects the values he embodies—hard work, generosity, and the unshakeable belief that “when we lift others, we rise together.”
Elumelu noted that the event is a testament to the deep commitment to his roots, his people, and his vision for a better and brighter future for all.
“Let us take a moment to reflect on acts human kindness as it reminds us that giving back, no matter how small, makes the world a better place.
“As we receive these gifts today, let us also commit to being a blessing to others in whatever way we can and encourage everyone to embrace this spirit of giving in our everyday lives.”, he said.
The Onicha-Uku traditional monarch, HRM, King Rapheal Agbamuche was represented at the event by High Chief Steve Osakwe, the Ede of Onicha-Uku.
In his remark, Osakwe praised the unwavering efforts and commitments of the Elumelu family to the betterment of the people of Onitcha-Uku.
He expressed the appreciations of the traditional monarch and good people of the community for the numerous acts of kindness and benevolence of the Elumelu family.
Also, speaking, the youth leader of Onitcha-Uku community, Mr. Hilary Okonkwo told NAN in an interview that this is not the first time Elumelu is giving back to the community.
“We are very grateful and will ever remain grateful to the Elumelu family because this is not the first time that he is giving back to our people.
“The Elumelu family have been a pillar of support to many families in Onitcha-Uku but this season’s donations is special to us considering the prevailing economic hardship in the country”, Okonkwo said.
One of the beneficiaries, Pa Okonji Elumelu, who offered special prayers for good health and God’s devine protection over the Elumelu family, said the rice donations is a big joy to the people of the community.
“We are very happy and thankful to our son, Tony Elumelu for what he has done today in the provision of these bags of rice to families here in Onitcha-Uku.
“We are most grateful because these donations is a source of joy in our hearts in view of the harsh economic realities facing many families.
“Our prayers is that God will continue to sustain him in good health, prosper him and keep him alive for us”, he said.
