The people of Umukogbuo community in Eluama, Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, have united to launch a new initiative — the Okogbuo Charity Foundation — aimed at assisting the less privileged, orphans, and out-of-school youths within the community and beyond.
The foundation, convened by Mr. Chikwendu Nnabuko, seeks to rekindle the traditional spirit of compassion and collective responsibility that the Okogbuo people are known for.
In his address to members of the community, Nnabuko said discussions have been ongoing among sons and daughters of Okogbuo to establish a structured platform that would “help the less privileged among us and reach out to charity homes in Isuikwuato.”
He lamented that some young people in the area have been unable to attend school or acquire skills due to a lack of support, warning that the trend, if not addressed, could endanger the future of the community.
“We have young people of school age who are not in school because they have no one to help them. Some want to acquire skills but lack both direction and means. That does not speak well for the future of our community,” he said.
“Idleness and hopelessness have driven our youth into drugs and violent crimes. If we continue to keep quiet today, tomorrow may be bleak.”
According to him, the Okogbuo Charity Foundation will also collaborate with similar Foundations to extend support to vulnerable children.
Nnabuko explained that contributions to the foundation will be strictly voluntary, noting that what matters most is the spirit of giving. “No one will be tasked. The spirit is what matters. God has been kind to us, and putting a little of what we have together to help others will gladden His heart,” he said.
He announced that a Board of Trustees and an Implementation Committee will be inaugurated to guide the operations of the foundation, ensuring transparency and effective outreach to beneficiaries.
While calling on indigenes at home and in the diaspora to key into the initiative, Nnabuko emphasized that donations will not be limited to members alone, but also open to friends, in-laws, and well-wishers.
The foundation, he added, will be formally launched during the 2025 Christmas holidays, with all interested members listed in a dedicated forum to coordinate activities.
“This is not compulsory for anyone, but those who find this a worthwhile cause will be listed as members. Together, we can give hope to the hopeless and secure a better future for our community,” Nnabuko affirmed.
Picture: Umukogbuo Town Hall
