The people of Yenigwe Community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have honoured a retired Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Patrick Ekade, in recognition of his contributions to the development of the community.
At a colourful reception held in his honour in Yenigwe, the Paramount Ruler of the community, Chief Pinel Zegbe, expressed profound appreciation to Dr. Ekade for attracting development projects to the area, particularly the installation of solar-powered street lights, which he said have improved security and illuminated the community for several hours daily.
Chief Zegbe also highlighted Dr. Ekade’s donation of N3 million towards the successful hosting of last year’s Obunem Epie Festival in Yenigwe, as well as his annual Christmas gifts to members of the community.
According to the monarch, the people remain grateful for the love and commitment Dr. Ekade has consistently shown towards the community.
“We had suffered neglect for many years, especially in the area of internal roads. However, Dr. Ekade came and facilitated the installation of solar lights, which have greatly benefited us. At Christmas, he also distributed bags of rice and other items to our people. These are things we cannot forget. We appreciate him and still look forward to more support,” Chief Zegbe said.
In separate goodwill messages, the Women Leader of Yenigwe Community, Chief Tosamina Bome; the Youth President, Mr. Joseph Friday; and community stakeholder, Mr. Kemebia Aibabua, commended Dr. Ekade for his generosity and unwavering support for the community. They prayed for greater success and accomplishments in his future endeavours.
Responding, Dr. Ekade expressed gratitude to the people of Yenigwe for the honour bestowed on him, stating that he now regards himself as a member of the community and would continue to support its development.
He noted that although he had facilitated projects in several communities across the Niger Delta region, Yenigwe was the first community to honour him in such a remarkable manner.
“This is an honour I will never forget in my life. It is not easy to be adopted and treated as a citizen of a community with which you have no blood relationship. This gesture shows the level of love and acceptance the people of Yenigwe have for me,” he said.
Dr. Ekade assured the community that its concerns, particularly those relating to infrastructure development, would be brought to the attention of the appropriate authorities.
“Whatever affects Yenigwe affects me. If the community is in pain, then I am also in pain. I want to assure you that all the concerns raised here will be taken to the relevant authorities for necessary action,” he stated.
He further commended the youth and women of the community for working harmoniously with the traditional leadership, noting that their peaceful disposition had contributed significantly to the development and stability of Yenigwe.
Dr. Ekade urged them to sustain the spirit of unity and cooperation for the continued progress of the community.
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