Session 37: Independence day and Patriotism

by Uwaomala Tedeye · January 21, 2023

Itsekiri NextGen Project: 2022 Session 37 Report
Topic: Independence Day/ Patriotism
Date: Saturday 01/10/2022
Volunteers Present: 5
Total Number of Attendees: 76
Timings: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Venue: Former Caravan 4, Aja-Pessu (Pessu Town), Warri
Main Topic/Activity: Independence Day/ Patriotism
Resource Person: Uwala Tedeye

Summary

The 1st of October 1960 was the day Nigeria gained independence. To mark this day, participants were taught what it means to be patriotic. Itsekiri Nextgen team went to Pessu community to show love to some patriotic Nigerians who have served the Nation in different capacities.

Session Delivery

The session began with an opening prayer. This was followed by the national anthem and then the Itsekiri anthem.

After which a quick Uwala Tedeye dressed in the Nigerian colour came out to refresh the memory of participants of the previous session.

Itse Mirabel Ukubeyinje beautifully dressed in a green and white outfit took the participants on Patriotism. Getting them prepared for the need to serve Nigeria in whatever capacity they find themselves be it as a lawyer, doctor, policeman, road safety officer, army, air force, navy, etc. They can also be patriotic in;

Volunteering in community projects.
Running for political offices.
Serving diligently in public or private industries.
Giving
Get involved in Sustainable Development Goals and other actions.

Patriotic Nigerians are proud of their country, no matter where they find themselves. Examples of some patriotic Nigerians are;

Olu of Warri Ogiame Atuwatse III
Ngozi Okonjo Iweala
Zion Oshiobuge
All members of Itsekiri Nextgen team. E.t.c.

Participants scribbled some lovely words on thank you cards, which were used to appreciate some patriotic Nigerians that have retired from service in Pessu Community.

The first visit was to the Olaraja of Pessu Community, Hon (Pa) D.S.T.O. Pessu who is a centenarian. He has served Nigeria as a Judge, a commissioner in the defunct Bendel state and a member of Bendel State house of assembly. He is also a member of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought. Volunteers and participants filed down to his residence to show him love. He welcomed Itsekiri NextGen with so much joy in the presence of one of his sons and wife.

Mr. Emmanuel Fregene introduced the team to him and also spoke on behalf of Itsekiri NexGen to appreciate Baba for his service to Nigeria and Nigerians.

Baba appreciated Itsekiri NextGen team for bringing this laudable project to his community. He showered everyone with prayers from the depth of his heart. He admonished the participants to take the project seriously as it will help mould them to be better persons in society.

Eyitemi was called upon to thank Baba in Itsekiri language and as Baba preferred the participants to relate with him in Itsekiri language. He also did the presentation of the Itsekiri NextGen thank you card and token to Baba. The olaraja appreciated the gift and the words in the card gladdened his heart.

Hon. Emmanuel Egbe was the second person to be appreciated. He was a former councillor as he represented Pessu ward. He is also a humanitarian as he volunteers with Itsekiri NextGen.

Mrs Comfort Ukusanjuya who is a retired teacher was overwhelmed as Itsekiri NextGen paid her a visit. She was in the company of Mr. Diamond Dudu who is a retiree of Nigeria Port Authority (NPA).

They both reluctantly came out and couldn’t believe this kind of love shown to them by Itsekiri NextGen. They appreciated Itsekiri NextGen team for putting up this kind gesture and for nurturing the youngsters of Pessu community and environ, as their prayers are with team.