Dr Emmanuel Ejembi Foundation flags off Ochobo–Agadagba road Project in Ohimini

The Doctor Emmanuel Ejembi Foundation, a non-governmental organization, has flagged off a road rehabilitation project from Ochobo to Agadagba in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.

IDOMA VOICE gathered that the project is part of the foundation’s corporate social responsibility to deliver essential community services to the people.

The traditional ruler in charge of Otukpo/Ohimini Local Government Area, His Royal Highness Chief Emmanuel Okochi, expressed appreciation for the rural road rehabilitation, noting that it will open up the community to development and boost commercial activities.

He said, “Dr. Doctor Emmanuel Ejembi is not based in the country. From his residence abroad, he came all the way to open up road in our community. Our people say it is not who is rich that gives but who has the heart to give. That is the story of Dr. Emmanuel Ejembi.

“There are many people in Agadagba who are wealthier than Dr. Ejembi and could have done this, but they didn’t. Yet he took it upon himself to ensure that the people of Agadagba, Aume, and Ochobo have a motorable road that will open up our community to commerce.

“I am grateful, and I urge other sons and daughters of Agadagba to emulate him and join hands to develop our land. Though he lives abroad, his heart remains at home. May this road bring lasting progress to our land.”

He emphasized the need for spirited individuals to complement government efforts in improving the lives of people, particularly at the grassroots level.

On his part, the King of Agadagba, Chief Peter Elaigwu, commended Dr. Ejembi for his remarkable gesture. He thanked him for his continued philanthropic efforts, noting that Dr. Ejembi has remained a consistent pillar of support for community development.

“Dr. Ejembi has shown uncommon commitment to the welfare of our people. His contributions are consistent, impactful, and deeply appreciated.

“He has never forgotten home. Every project he undertakes reflects his love for this community and his desire to see Agadagba develop.

“We are blessed to have a son like Dr. Ejembi. His heart is truly with his people, and his actions speak louder than words.”

The road construction has received approval from the local authority, with the secretary of the local government commending the effort of the initiator.

The official approval letter was presented on behalf of the Executive Chairman of the Local Government, Hon. Gabriel Adole.

According to him, government cannot do everything, and there is a need for spirited individuals to complement government efforts to make life better, particularly at the grassroots level.

He said, “We thank our brother, Dr. Ejembi, for this philanthropic work. He has done so when he has been doing before. And we are praying that the God Almighty that has given him, that has led him to start this construction, will take him to a greater height. They are following due process, they have written to the local government, and the local government has approved that the project should commence. Now I’m here to present to the contractor the official document that will give them the permission to proceed with the work.”

Speaking on behalf of the founder, Hon. Ijachi Ogwuche said, “I want to specially thank the chairman of the Ohimini Local Government, Honorable Gabriel Adole, for his cooperation and his understanding. He is a father indeed because whenever a child wants to do something and the father says no, he cannot do it. So I appreciate his effort for the blessing and the commencement of this work.”

In addition to road rehabilitation, the Doctor Emmanuel Ejembi Foundation has also renovated Ebu Community High School, Agadagba, providing modern facilities and furniture to support the learning needs of students. The school, which had collapsed due to years of infrastructural decay, has been transformed into a functional institution with 12 staff and security personnel placed on the foundation’s payroll.

According to the principal, Mr. Owiocho Amodu, the school had been abandoned for years and was completely overgrown by bush.

On his appointment, nothing was functioning, and reviving the school seemed almost impossible.

However, with support from Dr. Ejembi, the school was restored, awareness campaigns were launched, and community members embraced the revival.

The school now attracts students from distant communities such as Ikikla, Akpuka, and Ejifa. Some students even stay within the community during the week due to the long distance.

Last year, the school successfully secured WAEC and NECO centres, and the students recorded excellent results, with most subjects earning distinctions.

The community has welcomed the foundation’s initiatives wholeheartedly, expressing gratitude for the organization’s efforts to improve their lives.

The projects align with the foundation’s mandate to promote education, healthcare, and economic development.

The NGO noted that their focus is to empower communities and help them build a better future. The foundation’s commitment is also evident in its agricultural interventions.

To boost agricultural activities, it established Pan Springs Fields, an integrated farm at Uhugbane, Agadagba, providing employment for thousands of youths directly and indirectly.

The Acting Chairman of the foundation, Hon. Ogwuche Ijachi JP, highlighted additional interventions such as scholarships for indigent students, support for women-led small businesses, and relief materials for crisis-affected communities.

The foundation also donated motorcycles to security personnel and continues to assist residents in various ways. Plans are underway to donate medical equipment to local hospitals.

The foundation may be young, but its impact on the people of Ohimini is already remarkable. Community leaders continue to pray for long life and prosperity for Dr. Ejembi.