… To Sponsor Free Medical Treatment
By Ifeanyichukwu Ibe
Jubilation erupted in Owerri, the Imo State Capital, on Thursday, January 23, following the commencement of the distribution of over 5,600 bags of rice provided by the Minister of State (Finance) Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite to the residents of Imo State accross the 27 LGAs . In addition, arrangements are underway for free medical treatment to be sponsored by the Minister accross the state.
Beyond individual beneficiaries, various religious/social organisations, cultural groups, trade/student unions bodies as well as federal, state and local government establishments in the state benefited from the Minister’s largesse and kind gesture, attracting the spotlight on Dr. Uzoka-Anite’s commendable activities in public service and humanity.
Meanwhile, commendations from different quarters have continued to trail the Minister’s unprecedented feat through the rice distribution, with many highlighting the positive impacts of the food item towards the beneficiaries, considering the present economic challenges in the country with the attendant adverse effects on households who struggle to cope with high costs of living.
Speaking to newsmen while taking delivery of the palliatives, Rev Dr. Kelechi Onyegbule who represented the Anglican Bishop of Okigwe South/Archbishop of Owerri Province, His Grace, Most Rev Dr David Onuoha, described the action of the Minister as unprecedented and highly commendable. The Anglican priest who also served as the Secretary of the Distribution Committee, emphasized the importance of the palliatives, adding that Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite was thoughtful in coming to the aid of the masses.
On his own, the Special Adviser to Governor Uzodimma on Skills Acquisition, Hon Chidi Onyebuchi, expressed gratitude to Dr. Uzoka-Anite, adding that every household in the state would benefit. Onyebuchi, who is also an Aide to the Minister, thanked Governor Uzodimma for identifying and appointing the Minister to serve the state as a Commissioner before his current assignment. He further revealed plans by the Minister to sponsor 2000 cataract operations in the state with American doctors.
Extolling the Minister, the Chairman of Imo Entrepreneurs/Association of Table Water Producers (ATWAP), Engr. Lumanze Bismarck, described the gesture as overwhelming and beneficial to the residents in the state, while referring to Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite as a worthy daughter of the state, as he prayed God to strengthen her capacity to do good.
While Mr. Benedict Nwachukwu (aka Oyoyo) noted that the palliatives distribution demonstrated the Minister’s benevolence, praying for God’s blessings upon her.
Rejoicing, the Orlu Zonal Woman Leader of APC, Hon. Mrs Stella-Maris Ifejirika (Activity.Com) said: “We are very happy and appreciate our Minister for the good work she is doing in Imo State. She has made us proud and we’re glad to receive these palliatives which would reach every home in the state. Our prayer is for God to grant her more blessings, favours and protection.”
For the Public Relation Officer (PRO) of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Imo State Command, CSC Goodluck Uboegbulam, the Minister’s benevolence was commendable and would motivate greater commitment among security agents in the state. Similarly, Apostle Justus Ugochukwu representing Organization of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), disclosed that God entrones leaders to help the masses, appreciating Dr. Uzoka-Anite for fulfilling divine injunction.
The palliatives distribution by the Minister, underscored the importance of public office holders using their positions for the benefits of the people. No doubt, Dr. Uzoka-Anite, has through this singular humanitarian work, brought succour and joy to numerous households in the state, setting a good example for others to emulate.
