Christmas/New Year: Ezenagu Fetes with People of His Community

By Izunna Okafor

It was a joyful day for people of Ebenator Ozulogu, in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, as Mr. Gilbert Ezenagu gifted out over five hundred bags of rice to the citizens in celebration of Christmas and new year.

Held at his compound, the well-attended event saw both parents, youths and some physically-challenged members of the community smile bags of rice, amidst cheers and eulogies.

Speaking on the essence of the event, Mr. Ezenagu, popularly known as Ọbataobie in Ebenator, explained that the gesture was aimed at celebrating the new year with his people and enabling them to start the year in good faith. 

While revealing that he embarks on such philanthropic works periodically and almost in every quarter of the year, he opined that almsgiving comes by inspiration, which is usually irresistible. He also prayed that God inspires other well-to-do individuals to key into such philanthropy; as according to him, “that is the best way we can help one another to rise.”

On how governments can come in, Mr. Ezenagu noted that situation in the country is aggravating on daily basis, which necessitates that individuals start helping one another, rather than waiting for governments, whom themselves are the architects of the problems.

He said, “Government knows the right thing to do, but they refuse to do it. So, we can't keep on waiting for them. We should focus more talking about how we individuals and the private sector can help to make people's life better.”

Advising some people who may be habouring thoughts of indulging in illicit things because of their condition, the philanthropist said, “Life is full of challenges; and in the present-day Nigeria, challenges are inevitable. But they shouldn't allow their situation or challenges to take control of them. So, it is better for them to be very careful how they handle their problem, because even if they indulge in such illicit things, that will not still solve their problems. 

“They should allow God to take control of their problems. And they should keep praying to God. One day, God will surely send people who will help in the little way they can, and life God will get better.”

In their separate words of appreciation, some of the beneficiaries, Mr. David Aniakor and Mrs. Virginia Aniakor, who are both visually impaired, testified that it was not the first, second or even third time they're benefitting from Chief Ezenagu's philanthropic gestures.

While extolling and urging him not to relent in his good works, even as they prayed God to bless and reward him abundantly, and to continue to enlarge his coast. They also called on other affluent individuals to emulate Ezenagu's good works by giving alms to others in any little way they can.

The event featured worship songs and praises to God, as well as special prayers for more blessings upon the benefactor, among other highlights.