Posted by The Port Harcourt Telegraph on
The Rivers State Deputy Governor, Sir Gabriel Toby and his wife, Dame Christie have instituted an educational endowment fund for the sons and daughters of Opobo kingdom.
The Rivers State Deputy Governor, Sir Gabriel Toby and his wife, Dame Christie have instituted an educational endowment fund for the sons and daughters of Opobo kingdom.
Sir Toby who announced this at a New Year Party in honour of chiefs, elders and the people of Opobo kingdom at his country home said the sum of N1million would be provided to kick-start the scheme.
He disclosed that the endowment fund was conceived out of his desire to support indigent Opobo youths acquire quality education and equally assist the less-privileged in the kingdom.
While acknowledging the efforts and contributions of the Opobo people to the development of the state and country, Sir Toby observed that manpower development was essential for growth.
The deputy governor reminded the political class in the kingdom of the need to carry along the less privileged among them by giving the necessary support that would enhance their livelihood.
In his speech, the state Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Deacon Clapton Ogolo disclosed that the state government has approved the establishment of a Craft Development Centre at Opobo.
The Commissioner, who advised political God-fathers against expecting a share of money meant for development from local government chairmen, reminded the chairmen that at the end of the day, they would answer questions on what they did with council allocations.
He then announced the donation of N200, 000 in support of the endowment fund.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Council, Engr . Christopher Ogolo said his administration plans to embark on projects that would touch the lives of the people despite the council's meager resources.
The council boss, who also donated N800, 000 to support the fund, called on the "do- wells" in Opobo kingdom to assist the less privileged to give them a sense of belonging.
Highlight of the occasion was the formal commissioning of the Toby Gula Hall by the council Alapu.