13th September, 2010
There is a need now, more than ever before, for non-government organisations, NGOs, to partner with government for the economic growth of Nigeria. NGOs must get involved in advocacy implementation and monitoring of government policies and research and documentation.
This were the views of Barrister Eze Onyekpere, guest speaker at the fund raising and installation ceremony of Lion Kelechi Charles Onwukwe as president of the Yaba Lions Club for the 2010-2011 Lionistic Year. The event was held recently at the Solitude Hotel, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria.
Speaking on the role of NGOs in the economic development of Nigeria, the guest speaker posited that for economic growth to make sense, there must be jobs, access to education by all, increased capacity utilisation, diversification of the economy and development of infrastructure among others.
Also present at the event were Lion Dame Joy Warmate the District Governor of the International Association of Lions Clubs who was the Chief Host and Hon. Ejere Ugochukwu, the chairman of the event.
The outgoing president of the Yaba Lions Club, Lion (Engr) A. F. Idehai while giving an account of his stewardship stated that mosquito-treated net were donated to residents of Makoko, a slum in Lagos. The club also completed an ultramodern staff and pupils toilet at Igbobi Primary School and donated food items to inmates of Old Peoples Home among others.
Lion Kelechi Onwukwe in his acceptance speech promised to pursue the projects earmarked for the 2010-2011 Lionistic year. The projects include eye screening, visit to Yaba Old Peoples Home and contributing to the Sight First Ii campaign among others.