By Peace Aikhuere -Caleb,
The Neo Black Movement (NBM) of Africa, Sapele Chapter, has brought festive cheer to the Ugburumu community in Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State by donating essential foodstuffs and cash to members of the community.
The items, which included bags of rice, cartons of tomato paste, groundnut oil, and cash donations, were presented on Monday, December 23, 2024, at the Ugburumu Community Hall.
The well-attended event had community members and executives in high spirits, as the NBM highlighted its commitment to supporting its host community.
Presenting the items, Ese Mebradu, a former president of NBM Sapele Chapter, explained the gesture as a way of giving back. "We have enjoyed a peaceful relationship with this community since establishing our secretariat here. They have shown us respect and understanding, and this is our way of saying thank you," he said.
Speaking further, Mebradu emphasized the mission of the NBM, describing it as an organization focused on the emancipation of the black race. "NBM is about love, unity, and fighting for the oppressed," he added, before officially handing over the donations.
In response, Julius Akpoeti, president of the Ugburumu community, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the community. "This is the first time in our history that we have been recognized in this way. We accepted them peacefully when they came to us, and today, we see the benefits of that relationship," Akpoeti said. He also extended an invitation to the NBM, offering land for investment opportunities in the community.
Mr. Morgan Mamaye, the vice chairman of the community, called for further support beyond the festive donations. "We deeply appreciate this gesture, but we hope they can also help with job creation and education. Many of our people struggle to gain admission into schools or find sustainable livelihoods. If they can assist in these areas, it will make a lasting impact," he noted.
Alex Osegula Mayor, vice president of NBM Sapele Chapter, explained the motivation behind the initiative. "NBM is a Pan-African organization rooted in African culture and tradition. Our mission includes the emancipation of the black race and helping the oppressed. This donation is part of our philanthropic efforts to support our host community during these challenging times," he said.
Osegula also encouraged other organizations to emulate such acts of kindness.
Dr. Mascot Wanogho, president of the NBM Sapele Chapter, reiterated the organization’s commitment to charity and empowerment. "NBM of Africa is dedicated to giving back to society. This community has been a gracious host to our secretariat, and we felt it was necessary to support them, especially during these hard times," he said.
Wanogho highlighted other initiatives undertaken by the NBM including scholarships, talent shows, and legal aid for the oppressed. "We believe in uplifting our people, not just during festive seasons, but year-round. The black man has faced oppression for too long, and our mission is to fight against such injustices," he added.
The event concluded with an outpouring of gratitude from community members, who hailed the NBM for its generosity. Many described the gesture as a historic moment for the Ugburumu community and called for continued support.
By giving back to their host community, the Neo Black Movement of Africa has demonstrated the power of unity and charity, setting an example for other organizations to follow. Their act of kindness underscores the importance of collaboration in building stronger, more resilient communities.