As part of its commitment to community service, the Prince Oghenerukevwe Okifo Foundation (POOF) has donated educational materials to public primary and secondary schools in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State.
The items, which included branded notebooks, pens, pencils, and erasers, were distributed to ease the financial burden on parents and support students' education.
In addition to the educational donations, POOF also installed solar-powered floodlights at the Ughelli Area Command and Ughelli 'A' Division police stations, enhancing security by providing reliable lighting. The foundation further extended its efforts by installing street lights at Low-Cost Estate, Ughelli, as part of its ongoing community development projects.
During the presentation at various schools, including Osuovwa Primary School in Oghara-Agbarha, Efe Primary School in Orogun, and Mariere Primary School, among others, the foundation's CEO, Prince Oghenerukevwe Okifo, emphasized the importance of education. He encouraged students to view schooling as a valuable investment, countering the narrative that "school is a scam." He added, "I feel it is my responsibility to contribute to society and ensure that the younger generation understands the value of education."
Prince Okifo reiterated that the foundation’s efforts are not politically motivated, stating, "Our intention in distributing these items is purely for the benefit of the people, not politics."
Hon. Desmond Okpako Duke, speaking on behalf of POOF, highlighted the foundation's commitment to giving back to society without relying on government support. He noted that POOF operates across Nigeria’s 36 states, using its resources to uplift lives.
Head teachers from the beneficiary schools expressed gratitude for the foundation’s support, particularly during these challenging economic times. "Some students had not resumed school because their parents could not afford books. Thanks to POOF’s intervention, these children can now continue their education," one head teacher remarked.
In a related gesture, POOF donated solar security lights to the Ughelli Area Command and Ughelli 'A' Division police stations to improve security in the area. Prince Okifo explained, "We noticed the stations were in total darkness during power outages, which posed a security risk. These solar lights will help prevent potential infiltration by criminals."
The donations were received by the Divisional Police Officer of Ughelli 'A' Division, CSP Sadiq Mana, along with other representatives from the police command.
Additionally, the foundation secured admission for three underprivileged children, aged 8, 10, and 12, at Ogele Primary School in Ughelli, furthering its commitment to supporting education in the community.
Present at the various events were key members of the foundation, including the CEO of POF foundation, Amb. Prince Oghenerukevwe Okifo, Mrs Amb. Mariam Okifo, General Uba Esiri Darlington, Prince Famous Amrophe, Abodo Festus, Chief Israel, Mrs Precious Okifo, Perpetual Okifo, Jane, Solomon, Bernard, Hon. Desmond Okpako Duke amongst others.
