In a substantial effort to alleviate hunger and enhance the living conditions of residents, Eko Club International (ECI) has distributed food palliatives to over 1,000 communities across Lagos State. The outreach, which included essential food items such as rice, semovita, spaghetti, salt, and garri, reached areas like Festac, Badagry, Isolo, Itire, Shasha, and Ikorodu.
The Assistant General Secretary of Eko Club International, Tayo Ogunyemi, underscored the club’s commitment to uplifting rural communities. “Our club, consisting of 26 chapters spread across the US, Canada, and London, is steadfast in its mission to give back to society. This food distribution is a testament to our dedication to supporting those in need,” he said.
Ogunyemi, who also chairs the Palliative and Health Outreach Project, reiterated the club’s pledge to aid Lagosians, particularly in rural and low-income communities. He emphasized, “Eko Club is a diaspora organization comprising Lagosians who understand the challenges our people face. Under the leadership of Chief Saheed Olusi, our members contribute funds to procure and distribute food, aiming to ease the burdens in these communities.”
Highlighting the broader mission of Eko Club, Ogunyemi noted that the distribution of food palliatives is just one aspect of their initiatives. In early November, about one thousand Lagosians will receive medical attention from doctors abroad during a mega medical mission. This mission will travel through the five IBILE (Ikeja, Lagos Island, Badagry, Ikorodu, and Epe) regions of Lagos, providing critical healthcare services to those in need.
These efforts are set to provide much-needed relief to many families, demonstrating the club’s deep commitment to the welfare of Lagosians. The Alapa of Apa, Egun Awori Kingdom, Oba Oyekan Ajose, lauded the club’s efforts, remarking, “The residents will always cherish this generous giveaway from Eko Club International. The club’s initiative, independent of government aid, exemplifies a commendable spirit of community support.”
High Chief Saliu Arowooye, Adele of Isolo Kingdom, echoed these sentiments, advocating for more frequent initiatives: “We appreciate Eko Club’s friendship and their annual support. If such efforts could be undertaken quarterly or bi-annually, the community would greatly benefit. We pray for their continued success and empowerment.”
Olatunji Babatunde Anthonio, President of Eko Club California and current Treasurer of Eko Club International, emphasized the club’s longstanding dedication to community service. “Our president initiated this outreach, and we usually conduct bi-annual medical missions led by TJ Abass. This year, we plan to bring in about N80 million worth of medical equipment to various hospitals in Lagos,” Anthonio stated.
He also mentioned future plans for a learning center, made possible by land donations from community members and local leaders. Highlighting the club’s commitment to improving healthcare access, Anthonio added, “Under Honourable Saheed Olusi’s leadership, we are preparing for our next mega medical mission in November. This will include essential equipment such as hospital beds, X-ray machines, scanning machines, and wheelchairs.”
Grand Chief Imam of Isolo, Qasim Ajiyan, expressed his gratitude for the club’s impactful initiatives. “We are familiar with Eko Club’s efforts in Isolo. Their initiatives have a lasting impact on our community, particularly this one, which addresses the physical health of our residents,” he said, emphasizing the need for continued support for such initiatives. “We pray for Eko Club’s continued success and for more blessings upon them. Their efforts bring immense joy to the community.”
One beneficiary, Christiana Nnayon, expressed heartfelt thanks: “This food will go a long way for me and my family. I am a widow, and I feed only on God’s grace. I appreciate Eko Club; may God’s blessings be upon them always.” Another beneficiary, Idris Yusuf, also shared his gratitude: “Eko Club has helped us a lot by bringing this health mission to our doorstep. They gave us free treatment and drugs without collecting a dime.”
Eko Club International’s efforts exemplify a profound commitment to community welfare, showcasing the power of collective action in making a tangible difference in people’s lives.